Pharmacy Daily | Iron screening engages the health talk

WITH one in eight people over two years of age not consuming enough iron to meet their daily needs1, and around 8% of pre-school children, 12% of Australian women, & 20% of people older than 85 years being anaemic2, a "large portion of our pharmacy customers would benefit from having their iron levels checked and monitored," said Zena Daher, pharmacist-owner, Blooms The Chemist, Burwood, NSW.

It's widely known, iron is a crucial dietary mineral that plays a role in various bodily functions, including the immune system and transportation of oxygen in the blood.

Symptoms of iron deficiency include looking pallid, breathlessness,dizziness, tiredness and fatigue, and a compromised immune function with increased susceptibility to infection.2

"The issue with these symptoms is that they are also common for various other conditions including, ironically, high iron levels and the iron overload condition haemochromatosis3," explained Daher.

"This highlights the importance of testing and making sure we know the cause of the patient's symptoms, such as a 30-something woman complaining of feeling tired does not necessarily equate to having low iron.

"By promptly identifying abnormal iron levels, using a quick and low-cost test, individuals can receive timely treatment to prevent associated symptoms, like fatigue, and other possible, more serious indicated co-morbidities such as organ damage, diabetes, and arthritis3."

The results of iron testing provides guidance on next steps, such as recommending a visit to a doctor or advising on dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, or incorporating iron supplements to address a deficiency.

Further, iron deficiency has emerged as a common concern among patients with cardiovascular disease, according to a recent study published in the European Heart Journal.

The research further suggests that the prevalence of iron deficiency rises along with the severity of cardiac and renal dysfunction and may be more prominent among women.4

Considering the study findings and the vital role of iron levels in maintaining good overall health, "engage in the conversation about a customer's health and iron status and encourage them to be screened to determine if low iron could be the cause of their presenting symptoms," Daher concluded.

References are available, HERE.