In fact, iron deficiency anemia is the most common of all anemias. Determining the cause of the Fe deficiency is of pivotal importance in selecting appropriate therapy.
Blood loss is the most common cause of iron deficiency.
Menstruation is the most likely reason in women ages 15 to 45 years. Iron deficiency anemia in adult men and postmenopausal women is most likely due to chronic gastrointestinal blood loss. Lack of dietary iron may cause anemia in infancy when the daily need for iron is not met by milk alone. This is why iron supplements are given to infants. Iron deficiency is a major cause of anemia in pregnancy.