Internationella Järnbristdagen – Iron Deficiency Day

There are two main global days dedicated to iron deficiency: Iron Deficiency Day on November 26 and World Anemia Awareness Day on February 13, which also focuses on iron deficiency. Both events aim to raise global awareness about the prevalence and health consequences of iron deficiency and anemia and to encourage diagnosis and treatment.

• When: November 26
• Who: First marked in 2015, led by organizations like CSL Vifor.
• Purpose: To educate the public about the importance of iron, the signs and symptoms of deficiency, and the need for early diagnosis and treatment.
• Facts:
  • Iron is essential for oxygen transport and other vital bodily functions.
  • Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, affecting about one in three people.
  • It is particularly prevalent in premenopausal women, pregnant women, and children under five. 

• When: February 13
• Who: Supported by organizations like the International Foundation for Patient Blood Management.
• Purpose: To raise awareness of anemia and iron deficiency’s impact on global health and promote preventative measures.
• Facts:
  • Anemia is often a consequence of iron deficiency, though they don’t always coexist.
  • Iron deficiency is significantly more prevalent in heart failure patients than anemia.
  • The day also highlights the importance of Patient Blood Management (PBM) to improve blood health.