THE GROWING BURDEN OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA AMONG WOMEN AND CHILDREN: CAUSES, HEALTH CONSEQUENCES, PREVENTION STRATEGIES, AND THE ROLE OF NUTRITION EDUCATION IN MODERN PUBLIC HEALTH

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common public health problems in the world. It mainly affects women, pregnant women, adolescent girls, and young children. This condition develops when the body does not have enough iron to produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues. As a result, people with anemia may feel weakness, tiredness, dizziness, shortness of breath, and reduced ability to study or work. According to the World Health Organization, anemia remains a major public health concern and its burden is especially high in low- and lower-middle-income countries, rural areas, poorer households, and among people with limited education. This article discusses the causes, health consequences, prevention strategies, and the role of nutrition education in reducing iron deficiency anemia among women and children.