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[Teenage iron deficiency]
1Barneklinikken, Rikshospitalet, Oslo.
Summary
Adolescent iron deficiency is prevalent, affecting 40% of girls and 15% of boys due to growth, menstruation, and poor diet. Screening for iron status, including hemoglobin and serum ferritin, is recommended.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Medicine
- Nutritional Science
- Hematology
Background:
- Iron deficiency is a significant health concern in adolescents.
- Increased iron requirements during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and physical training contribute to this deficiency.
- Poor dietary habits exacerbate iron depletion in this age group.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the prevalence of iron deficiency in adolescents.
- To emphasize the need for iron due to physiological changes and lifestyle factors.
- To advocate for screening protocols for iron status in adolescents.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on adolescent iron status.
- Analysis of data from large-scale studies in USA, Canada, and Sweden.
- Focus on iron depletion markers such as serum ferritin levels.
Main Results:
- Studies indicate significant iron depletion (serum ferritin < 16 µg/L) in 40% of adolescent girls and 15% of adolescent boys.
- Iron depletion may occur with or without accompanying anemia.
- Limited data exists specifically for Norwegian adolescents.
Conclusions:
- Iron deficiency is a common issue among adolescents globally.
- Screening for iron status, incorporating hemoglobin and serum ferritin tests, is crucial for early detection and intervention.
- Addressing dietary habits and increased iron needs is essential for adolescent health.