World Anaemia Awareness Day

We want to change the way iron deficiency anaemia is prevented and treated.

50% of anaemia is due to iron deficiency

Iron deficiency is the leading cause of anaemia worldwide. While often associated with low- and middle-income countries, iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is also a significant public health concern in high-income countries.1, 2. Iron deficiency anaemia doesn't just impair health; it impacts economies, education, and quality of life1.

The key to combating iron deficiency anaemia is awareness, early diagnosis and treatment3. Standardised international diagnosis criteria, including haemoglobin levels, serum ferritin, and transferrin saturation, are crucial for effective detection and management4.

Be vigilant about the symptoms of iron deficiency and consult a healthcare professional without delay.

Read more about symptoms and management of iron deficiency anaemia here.


  1. Anaemia

  2. Prevalence and incidence of iron deficiency in European community-dwelling older adults: an observational analysis of the DO-HEALTH trial - PMC

  3. World Health Organization, Anaemia Policy Brief, 2022

  4. Recommendations for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia - PMCGeneva, World Health Organization, 2011 (WHO/NMH/NHD/MNM/11.1)

A major health challenge for women

Anaemia affects approximately one in three women of reproductive age globally, with iron deficiency recognised as the leading cause1,2. Iron deficiency anaemia impacts not only their health but also their daily life and productivity1.

Women suffering from iron deficiency anaemia often experience symptoms such as severe fatigue, depression, restless legs, reduced exercise tolerance, anxiety, and decreased cognitive function3,4. These symptoms can profoundly affect both personal and professional aspects of life.

The key to combating iron deficiency anaemia is awareness, early diagnosis and treatment2. Stay alert to the symptoms of iron deficiency and seek medical advice promptly if you suspect iron deficiency anaemia.

For more information on the symptoms and management of iron deficiency anaemia.


*of reproductive age

  1. Anaemia in women and children

  2. World Health Organization, Anaemia Policy Brief, 2022

  3. Stevens GA, et al. Anaemia estimates in women and children (2000-19). Lancet Glob Health. 2022;10(5):e627-e639.

  4. Benson CS, et al. Impact of iron deficiency and anaemia on women's health. Anaesthesia. 2021;76(Suppl 4):84-95.

Anaemia can be more than fatigue

While tiredness is a common symptom, anaemia can lead to more severe consequences, such as developmental delays in children, complications during pregnancy, and reduced productivity.1

Iron deficiency anaemia during pregnancy for example can compromise both maternal and fetal health, affecting fetal development and increasing the risk of complications.2

Stay alert to fatigue and other symptoms and seek medical advice promptly if you suspect iron deficiency anaemia.

For more information on the symptoms and management of iron deficiency anaemia, read more here.


  1. Anaemia in women and children

  2. Benson CS, et al. Impact of iron deficiency and anaemia on women's health. Anaesthesia. 2021;76(Suppl 4):84-95.

We want to change the way iron deficiency anaemia is prevented and treated

Many iron deficiency anaemia cases go undiagnosed1. The key to combating iron deficiency anaemia is awareness, early diagnosis and treatment2. 

Be vigilant about the symptoms of iron deficiency and consult a healthcare professional without delay.

For more information on the symptoms and management of iron deficiency anaemia, read more here.

Awareness leads to prevention and treatment, thereby saving lives.


  1. Iron deficiency: new insights into diagnosis and treatment | Hematology, ASH Education Program | American Society of Hematology

  2. World Health Organization, Anaemia Policy Brief, 2022

Pharmacosmos is...

A global pioneer in carbohydrate chemistry and a leader in the development of innovative treatments for patients suffering from iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia.

Iron Deficiency

Iron is essential for carrying and storing oxygen in our blood, for energy production, and for cell growth. Learn about the effects of iron deficiency on our health.