- Young adults with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) have a significantly higher risk of experiencing an ischemic stroke.
- Patients aged 15 to 49 with IDA were five times more likely to have an ischemic stroke.
- IDA remained an independent predictor of stroke even after adjusting for other risk factors.
- The study highlights the need for improved screening and treatment strategies for IDA in young adults.
- Possible biological pathways linking IDA to stroke risk include reduced red blood cell flexibility, elevated clotting proteins, and increased inflammation.
- The study analyzed health records from over 21 million individuals in the United States.
- The analysis included only those younger than 50 and excluded individuals with conditions that might confound the results.
Source: eJHaem
