A new family home approach to controlling iron deficiency anemia in all ages in less-developed and developing countries using iron-fortified water

Arch Latinoam Nutr. 2016 Sep;66(3):159-164.

Abstract

Nutritional iron deficiency anemia is considered the main public health problem of poor less-developed and developing countries. The World Health Organization has estimated that 1.5-2.0 billion persons are anemic. It has been said that close to 1 million deaths are linked to iron deficiency anemia. The groups most vulnerable to this form of anemia are said to be small children and women of reproductive age. Our goal is to show that iron fortification in the water, will control anemia. The method used was a literature review. Methods have been identified to control anemia, but the fortification of water is a more efficient, low cost, reaches the entire population, prevents and treats deficiency anemia. We concluded that the iron fortification of drinking water at home is a simple, effective, and low-priced approach for the prevention of iron deficiency anemia prevalent in poor and developing countries.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / prevention & control*
  • Developing Countries*
  • Humans
  • Iron, Dietary / administration & dosage*
  • Water / chemistry*

Substances

  • Iron, Dietary
  • Water