Understanding Anemia: Causes, Risks, and Why Black Women Are More Affected
Anemia is a term many of us have heard, and some may even assume they have it based on symptoms like feeling cold all the time. However, anemia is more than just a feeling—it's a medical condition that requires a blood test to diagnose. In a recent webinar, Dr. Bryanne Standifer broke down what anemia is, its common causes, and why Black women are at a higher risk.
What Is Anemia?
Anemia is diagnosed through a blood test that measures hemoglobin levels. Hemoglobin is a molecule found in red blood cells, and its main job is to carry oxygen throughout the body. For women, a normal hemoglobin level is above 12. When it falls below that, it’s considered anemia.
Dr. Standifer categorizes anemia into three main causes:
-
Blood Loss: Losing blood, whether through heavy periods, surgery, or internal bleeding, can lead to anemia.
-
Nutrient Deficiencies: The body needs certain nutrients, like iron and vitamin B12, to build red blood cells. A lack of these can cause anemia.
-
Red Blood Cell Breakdown: Sometimes, red blood cells break apart prematurely due to genetic conditions or other diseases, leading to anemia.
Why Are Black Women More Likely to Have Anemia?
Black women are disproportionately affected by anemia for several reasons:
1. Heavy Periods and Fibroids: Many Black women experience heavy menstrual bleeding, often due to fibroids—benign tumors in the uterus that can cause excessive bleeding. This chronic blood loss depletes the body's iron stores, leading to anemia.
2. Colon Cancer Risk: Colon cancer, which is more common in the Black community, can also cause anemia. When colon cancers bleed internally, the blood loss may not always be visible. Signs include fatigue and, in some cases, black-colored stool, which indicates internal bleeding.
Signs and Symptoms of Anemia
The tricky thing about anemia is that symptoms vary. Some people feel exhausted, experience hair loss, or have pale skin, while others may feel completely fine because their bodies have adapted to low hemoglobin levels over time. Some severe cases even cause cravings for non-food items like clay—a condition known as pica.
The Importance of Regular Testing
Dr. Standifer emphasizes that many women go undiagnosed because iron levels are not always included in routine lab tests. Additionally, many women assume their long or heavy periods are normal when, in reality, they may be signs of an underlying issue like fibroids or chronic anemia.
When to See a Doctor
If your period lasts longer than six or seven days, or you experience chronic fatigue, hair loss, or unexplained cravings, it’s essential to check your iron levels. Many women don’t realize their persistent exhaustion is due to anemia, which is why routine testing and speaking up about symptoms are crucial.
Final Thoughts
Anemia is more than just feeling cold or tired—it’s a medical condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment. For Black women, understanding the risks and advocating for iron level testing can be a game changer in improving overall health.
If you suspect you may have anemia, don’t hesitate to speak with a healthcare provider. Early detection and proper management can make a world of difference in your well-being.