Clinical consequences of iron deficiency

Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia have been associated with a number of clinical consequences:

• anaemia
• decreased memory, impaired learning and concentration
• impaired immune function
• decreased aerobic sports performance
• decreased work productivity
• fatigue
• adverse pregnancy outcomes:
  • increased risk of low birth weight
  • increased risk of prematurity
  • increased risk of maternal morbidity
• infant motor and mental function delay
• increased risk of transfusion and associated outcomes

 

References

1. Gastroenterological Society of 
   Australia. Clinical update: Iron deficiency, Updated 2015. 
   Sydney, Australia, Digestive Health Foundation, 2015. Available from: http://www.gesa.org.au.
2. Pasricha SR, Flecknoe-Brown SC, Allen KJ, Gibson PR, McMahon LP, Olynyk JK, et al. Diagnosis and management of iron deficiency anaemia: a clinical update. MJA 2010;193:525–532. Available from: http://www.mja.com.au.

 

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