Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional problems worldwide, and women are affected to the greatest extent. Globally, more than 30 percent of women of reproductive age are estimated to be iron deficient, according to the World Health Organization. This means that nearly one in three women worldwide has low iron levels, which can affect energy levels, concentration, and overall quality of life.
Iron deficiency in Europe
Even in high-income countries, iron deficiency is widespread despite generally adequate nutrient intake. In Europe, it is estimated that between 20 and 25 percent of women of reproductive age are iron deficient. The high prevalence is largely due to menstrual blood loss, low intake of iron-rich foods, and the fact that iron from plant-based diets is more difficult for the body to absorb.
It is also common for women to live with mild or borderline iron deficiency without being aware of it. Symptoms such as fatigue, low mood, dizziness, or heart palpitations are often attributed to stress, lack of sleep, or simply “a busy phase of life.”
What about Sweden?
In Sweden, studies show that approximately 15 to 30 percent of women of reproductive age have iron deficiency, depending on how deficiency is defined and which population is studied. Among younger women, particularly teenagers and women in their twenties and thirties, the prevalence is even higher. One Swedish study of female blood donors found that more than 40 percent had depleted or low iron stores, despite otherwise being healthy.
At the same time, iron deficiency is often overlooked in primary healthcare. Many women are told that their hemoglobin levels are “within the normal range,” even when iron stores, measured as ferritin, are low and symptoms are clearly present.
Reversing the trend is possible
The good news is that the most common cause of iron deficiency is dietary, meaning that many people simply do not get enough iron from their food. This is something that can be addressed. By adjusting iron intake to individual needs, especially during periods of increased demand such as adolescence, pregnancy, or heavy menstrual bleeding, it is possible both to prevent iron deficiency and to restore healthy iron levels.
