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Types of anemia

Decoding Anemia: Understanding Its Types

Types Of Anemia And Their Causes[26]

Anemia is classified into different types based on red blood cell production, destruction, and haemoglobin defects. Identifying the type helps guide effective treatment and management.

Aplastic anemia occurs when the bone marrow fails to produce enough red blood cells. This leads to fatigue, infections, and increased risk of bleeding.
Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder where the body produces abnormal haemoglobin. It leads to excessive destruction of red blood cells, causing anemia of varying severity.
Megaloblastic anemia results from impaired DNA synthesis leading to large, abnormal red blood cells. It is commonly caused by deficiency of Vitamin B12 or folate.
Haemoglobinopathies involve mutations in haemoglobin genes. Sickle cell anemia causes rigid, sickle-shaped red blood cells that block blood flow, leading to pain crises and organ damage.
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia. Insufficient iron leads to reduced haemoglobin production, causing fatigue, pallor, and shortness of breath.
Hemolytic anemia occurs when red blood cells are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can replace them. Causes include autoimmune conditions, infections, and inherited disorders.

Understanding Anemia Risk Factors[25]

Certain health conditions, nutritional deficiencies, and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of developing anemia.

A diet low in essential vitamins and minerals

Not getting enough iron, vitamin B12, and folate can increase the risk of anemia.

Problems with the small intestine

Conditions that affect how the small intestine absorbs nutrients - such as Crohn’s disease and celiac disease - can increase the risk of anemia.

Menstrual periods

In general, women who experience periods have a higher risk of iron deficiency anemia due to blood loss.

Pregnancy

Pregnant women who do not get enough folic acid and iron may have a higher risk of anemia.

Ongoing or chronic conditions

Conditions such as cancer, kidney failure, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses can increase the risk of anemia of chronic disease.

Slow, chronic blood loss

Blood loss from ulcers or other internal sources can gradually reduce the body’s iron levels and lead to anemia.

Family history

Having a family history of certain types of anemia may increase your risk.

Understanding Mild, Moderate & Severe Anemia

Haemoglobin levels help determine the severity of anemia and guide timely diagnosis and treatment across different age groups.

Haemoglobin levels to diagnose anemia (g/dl)

Population Group (Age Category) No Anemia (Normal) Mild Anemia Moderate Anemia Severe Anemia
Adolescents (10 to 19 years) ≥12.0 11.0-11.9 8.0–10.9 <8.0
Pregnancy First trimester ≥110 100–109 70–99 <70
Second trimester ≥105 95–104 70–94 <70
Third trimester ≥110 100–109 70–99 <70
Non-Pregnant Women (>15 years) >12.0 11.0–11.9 8.0–10.9 <8.0
Adults, 15–65 years men ≥130 110–129 80–109 <80

Living with Anemia

Living with anemia can affect more than just your energy levels. From constant fatigue and shortness of breath to difficulty concentrating and reduced daily stamina, anemia can quietly impact your quality of life over time.

The good news? With early awareness, the right nutrition, medical guidance, and timely management, anemia can often be prevented, managed, and treated effectively.

Take the next step toward better health and explore ways to prevent and manage anemia.

Learn How to Prevent & Manage Anemia

Myths And Facts

Myth

All anemia is caused by iron deficiency.

Fact

Anemia can also result from vitamin B12 deficiency, folate deficiency, or chronic diseases.[9A]

Myth

Anemia only develops due to poor diet.

Fact

Blood loss, genetic conditions, and certain diseases can also cause anemia.[9A]

Myth

Thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia are the same.

Fact

Thalassemia is a genetic disorder, while iron deficiency anemia results from low iron.[28]

Myth

Young, healthy people can't develop anemia.

Fact

Anemia can affect people of all ages.[9A]