Iron deficiency isn’t just anaemia: Why ‘normal’ haemoglobin can still mean low iron
This article explains that iron deficiency can occur even when haemoglobin levels appear normal in standard lab tests. It details the difference between absolute and functional iron deficiency and highlights various causes ranging from dietary habits to chronic inflammation.
Why it matters
Understanding that iron deficiency is distinct from anaemia helps patients and doctors identify health issues earlier, preventing long-term complications.
Iron deficiency is commonly associated with anaemia, but the two are not the same. You can be iron-deficient even when your haemoglobin (Hb) is within the laboratory’s “normal” range.Haemoglobin reference ranges are based on population averages and do not necessarily represent an individual’s usual baseline. If your usual Hb is higher, a result that technically falls within the normal range may still represent a meaningful drop. More importantly, iron deficiency should be addressed once identified rather than waiting for anaemia to develop.Iron exists in two broad pools in the body. The storage pool — primarily found in the liver, spleen — and reticuloendothelial system, acts as the body’s reserve.
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