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Anemia in the elderly: a consequence of aging?
Racha Halawi1, Hassan Moukhadder2, Ali Taher2
1a Department of Internal Medicine , Emory University School of Medicine , Atlanta , GA , USA.
Expert Review of Hematology
|January 24, 2017
Summary
Anemia in older adults is common and linked to poor health outcomes. This review covers its prevalence, causes like iron deficiency and chronic disease, and treatments, including unexplained anemia linked to inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Hematology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Anemia is prevalent in the elderly, significantly impacting quality of life, health outcomes, and mortality.
- Often overlooked, anemia in older adults frequently has an underlying, correctable cause.
- Unexplained anemia in this population may be linked to age-related inflammatory processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the prevalence of anemia in the elderly.
- To discuss common causes, including iron deficiency anemia and anemia of chronic disease.
- To outline current and emerging treatment modalities for anemia in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on anemia in the elderly.
- Analysis of prevalence data and etiological factors.
- Evaluation of existing and investigational treatment strategies.
Main Results:
- Identified iron deficiency anemia and anemia of chronic disease as primary causes.
- Highlighted unexplained anemia, potentially driven by inflammation, as an area for further research.
- Discussed limitations in treating anemia of chronic disease and kidney disease due to hepcidin.
Conclusions:
- Anemia management in the elderly requires addressing specific causes, with nutritional deficiencies being most straightforward.
- Treatment for anemia of chronic disease and kidney disease faces challenges, with novel therapies under development.
- Cautious use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and blood transfusions is advised due to safety concerns and lack of specific elderly guidelines.
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