underlying cause nearly always eliminates the
anemia. Most anemias are curable or treatable.
Risk Factors and Preventive MeasuresA number of factors can create risk for developing
anemia. People who are at greatest risk for anemia
are those who
- consume a diet low in iron, folic acid, and vita-
min B 12 , nutrients the bone marrow requires to
manufacture erythrocytes - have gastrointestinal conditions that interfere
with nutrient absorption, notably INFLAMMATORY
BOWEL DISEASE (IBD), MALABSORPTION disorders,
andCELIAC DISEASE - menstruate or are pregnant
- have chronic health conditions that strain the
body’s resources, such as AUTOIMMUNE DISOR-
DERS or INFECTION (for example, HEPATITIS or
HIV/AIDS)- have blood disorders; LEUKEMIA, LYMPHOMA, or
multiple myeloma; or who are undergoing
CHEMOTHERAPY or RADIATION THERAPYfor other
types of CANCER
People at risk for anemia should have their
blood tested regularly and any time they develop
symptoms of anemia. Though it is not always pos-
sible to prevent anemia, early treatment can mini-
mize the adverse effects of anemia on overall
health as well as intervene in the underlying con-
dition at an early stage.
See also DISSEMINATED INTRAVASCULAR COAGULATION
(DIC);HEMATOPOIESIS.apheresis See HEMAPHERESIS.126 The Blood and Lymph