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[Vitamin B 12 deficiency in the aged]
E Pautas1, P Chérin, C De Jaeger
1Service de Médecine Interne Gériatrie, Hôpital Charles Foix, Ivry-sur-Seine.
Presse Medicale (Paris, France : 1983)
|November 24, 1999
Summary
Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common issue in older adults, often linked to malabsorption. Early detection is crucial, even without anemia, due to its connection with neurological and cardiovascular diseases.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Nutritional Science
- Neurology
Context:
- Vitamin B12 deficiency is prevalent in the elderly population.
- Clinical presentation can be subtle, with anemia developing late.
- Associated with significant neurological and cardiovascular risks.
Purpose:
- To highlight the importance of screening for vitamin B12 deficiency in the elderly.
- To emphasize the need for early detection regardless of anemia presence.
- To underscore the link between deficiency, hyperhomocysteinemia, and associated diseases.
Summary:
- Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in the elderly and requires proactive screening.
- Malabsorption is a key cause in this demographic.
- Screening is recommended even in the absence of overt anemia, given potential late-onset symptoms and serious health implications.
Impact:
- Facilitates earlier diagnosis and intervention for vitamin B12 deficiency in older adults.
- Aims to reduce the incidence of associated neuropsychiatric and cardiovascular conditions.
- Promotes a more comprehensive approach to geriatric health assessment.