Final answer:
Iron deficiency anemia is caused by insufficient iron intake or absorption, or from excessive loss of iron. Risk factors include being a teen or child, veganism or vegetarianism, and certain health conditions that impair iron intake or cause bleeding. Treatment involves increasing iron intake through diet or supplements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The condition described in the question, which results from insufficient intake or absorption of iron or from excessive iron loss, is known as iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia is especially common in teens and children, as well as in vegans and vegetarians. Causes include dietary deficiency due to low iron intake or high amounts of phytates in cereals that render iron non-absorbable, lack of absorption due to malabsorptive syndromes, increased demand during rapid growth or pregnancy, and pathological blood loss such as from gastrointestinal bleeding or heavy menstruation.
Chronic bleeding or conditions that impede iron absorption and transport can also lead to iron deficiency anemia. Pregnant women, individuals with gastrointestinal conditions, and those who do not consume enough iron-rich foods are at increased risk. Treatment may involve dietary adjustments and supplementation with iron to address the deficiency and prevent complications like megaloblastic anemia, which involves deficiencies of vitamin B12 and/or folate.