Final answer:
In summary, adult males have about 5 to 6 liters of blood while adult females have 4 to 5 liters. Blood volume in fetuses, infants, and premature infants varies and their blood contains fetal hemoglobin for efficient oxygen uptake. Conditions like iron deficiency anemia, affecting different populations, result in low hemoglobin levels and a host of associated health issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
In regards to the blood volume in different populations, adult males typically have about 5 to 6 liters of blood, which is roughly 8% of their body weight, while adult females have slightly less, averaging 4 to 5 liters. The blood volume in fetuses, infants, and premature infants is considerably less and varies greatly depending on the stage of development and overall health. Factors such as fetal growth, the presence of iron deficiency anemia, and the particular demands of the body during different life stages, like infancy and pregnancy, affect blood volume and composition.
During pregnancy, several adaptations occur, including increases in blood volume to accommodate the needs of the fetus and the placenta. The fetus has unique adaptations such as fetal hemoglobin, which binds oxygen at lower pressures, allowing efficient uptake of oxygen from the mother's blood. Fetal circulation is distinct from postnatal circulation, with key significant shunts and adaptations that prioritize oxygen delivery to vital organs, since the lungs are not in use. There are also noted concerns for babies born premature, as they might have limited survival chances due to underdeveloped organs, particularly the respiratory and neurological systems.
Iron deficiency anemia is a condition often found in children, adolescents, and nursing mothers, characterized by low hemoglobin levels, poor appetite, pallor of the skin, and stunted growth and development. The hemoglobin content during this anemia is typically between 5 to 9 g/100 ml of blood. Adequate iron intake and prevention of blood loss are essential for maintaining healthy blood levels, especially in vulnerable populations such as infants and pregnant women.