Are Women More Prone To Anemia Than Men?

Anemia is a common medical condition that has a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin or the number of red blood cells in the blood. Symptoms of anemia include weakness, shortness of breath, fatigue, and dizziness. Anemia is generally caused by an iron deficiency, and while it does affect both men and women, it is more common for women than men to be anemic.

Why are Women More Susceptible to Anemia?

Since women have a menstrual cycle in which they lose blood every month during their menstrual cycle, this often leads to a decrease in their iron levels. If women are not careful to replenish these iron stores, they can develop anemia. Women that have heavy menstrual periods or frequent bleeding due to certain conditions are at a higher risk of developing anemia because they lose more blood each month.

When women become pregnant, their risk of having anemia increases because while a woman is pregnant the fetus requires iron for growth and development, which lowers the mother’s iron stores. If the mother doesn’t consume adequate iron through supplementation or iron-rich foods, she may develop iron-deficiency anemia. Iron-deficiency anemia can lead to low birth weight and premature birth, so it’s especially important for the mother and baby’s health that adequate iron intake happens. 

Diet Influences Anemia Risk 

Another reason women may be at increased risk of developing anemia due to cultural and social influences. Women are more likely than men to jump on the idea of restrictive diets or food fads that can lead to a nutrient deficiency. Food insecurity and poverty can lead to an increased risk of anemia as well, and women seem to be at a higher risk. Even though women are more likely to become anemic, men are still at a risk. Men with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can have a higher risk faster than those that do not. 

Anemia Prevention and Treatment

Anemia is a very treatable condition, and if you suspect you may have anemia, you should check with your healthcare provider for testing, possible diagnosis, and treatment. Treatment plans may consist of changes in your diet, supplementing with an iron supplement, or other medications but it relies on what the root cause of your anemia is. Preventing anemia isn’t difficult if you consume a healthy diet of various iron-rich foods. Some food sources of iron include beans, red meat, fish, poultry, tofu, lentils, and dark leafy greens. If you consume a lot of tea or caffeine, these can interfere with iron absorption so be mindful of how much you consume. 

Work With a Doctor For Anemia

While women are more prone to anemia than men, this health condition does not discriminate and can affect anyone. If left untreated, anemia can cause serious health problems. It is important to work with a medical provider that knows how to help patients with anemia. Dr. Mashner would love to help you with your health concerns. Call us today to schedule your first appointment!