Question

What are the most common causes of iron deficiency in female adults (20-50 years old)?

1) Menorrhagia
2) Pregnancy
3) Other

Answer 1

Iron deficiency in female adults is commonly caused by menorrhagia, increased demand during pregnancy, and other factors such as dietary deficiency or malabsorption. Iron supplements and dietary intake are key to prevention and treatment.

Step-by-step explanation:

Common Causes of Iron Deficiency in Female Adults

The most common causes of iron deficiency in female adults aged 20 to 50 include:

1. Menorrhagia: Heavy menstrual bleeding can lead to significant iron loss each month.
2. Pregnancy: Increased demand for iron occurs to support the growing fetus and placenta, as well as to compensate for blood loss during childbirth.
3. Other factors such as dietary deficiency, especially in vegetarians or vegans due to high phytate content which inhibits iron absorption, malabsorption syndromes affecting the gastrointestinal tract, and chronic conditions that may cause continual blood loss or increased iron requirements.

Iron deficiency anemia can be prevented or treated with adequate dietary intake of iron or iron supplements. In the case of excessive menstrual blood loss or during periods of high demand such as growth, pregnancy, and lactation, supplementation is often necessary.

It is noted that a deficiency in hemoglobin synthesis could also be related to copper deficiency, which is another factor to consider in cases of anemia.