A state in which the body’s available iron stores are insufficient to meet its physiological needs.
Iron is needed for hemoglobin production and several other biological functions. Iron deficiency can develop because of inadequate intake, increased requirements, impaired absorption, or blood loss.
If deficiency becomes sufficiently severe, it can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, but iron deficiency can exist before anemia develops.
QUICK FACT
Iron deficiency and iron-deficiency anemia are not identical. Iron stores can become depleted before hemoglobin falls enough to meet the definition of anemia.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
Anemia: a condition involving insufficient hemoglobin or red blood cells to adequately meet the body’s oxygen-carrying needs; iron deficiency is one possible cause.
SEE ALSO
