Absolute and Functional Iron Deficiency in the US, 2017-2020

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Paper Summary

Conflicts of Interest

Identified Weaknesses

Rating Explanation

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Paper Summary

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Many US Adults Have Iron Deficiency, But Few Take Supplements

This cross-sectional study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) and found that 14% of US adults have absolute iron deficiency and 15% have functional iron deficiency. Iron supplement use was low among adults with iron deficiency, ranging from 22% to 35% in women and 12% to 18% in men, depending on age.

Possible Conflicts of Interest

Dr. Lutsey reported receiving grants from the NIH outside of the submitted work. Dr. Buckley reported receiving speaking fees and consulting fees from organizations outside of the submitted work. No other disclosures were reported.

Identified Weaknesses

Cross-sectional design

This study design can show associations, but not causal relationships between iron deficiency and other factors.

Self-reported data

Reliance on self-reported information, such as supplement use and medical history, may introduce recall bias and inaccuracies.

Lack of information on iron absorption

The study measured dietary iron intake but didn't account for factors influencing absorption, like vitamin C intake, leading to potential underestimation.

Limited subgroup analysis

Small sample sizes in some subgroups, such as those with specific comorbidities, may limit the generalizability of findings.

Rating Explanation

This study provides valuable information on the prevalence of both absolute and functional iron deficiency in a large, nationally representative sample. The limitations regarding causal inference, self-reported data, and lack of absorption data are acknowledged. However, the findings are important for public health and highlight the need for further research and improved screening strategies.

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