WHO guidelines help detect iron deficiency and protect brain development

Detection of iron deficiency in early pregnancy and in young children is crucial. Iron deficiency in children under the age of two can have a significant and irreversible effect on brain development. This can have negative effects on learning and performance in school later in life. The cognitive development of the baby can also be affected if the mother has an iron deficiency in the last trimester of pregnancy. New World Health Organization guidelines on the use of ferritin concentrations for assessing iron status in individuals and populations will help healthcare professionals detect iron deficiency early and avoid the most severe impacts.

WHO is showing how best to measure ferritin, an indicator of iron stock, to determine iron deficiency or overload. Ferritin is a protein that can be found in a small amount that circulates in a person’s bloodstream. Ferritin levels are low in iron deficient individuals and high in iron-containing individuals. Accurate measurements of this protein, together with clinical and laboratory evaluation, can guide appropriate interventions both in individual patients and at the population level.

“Reducing anemia is one component of our efforts to eradicate all forms of malnutrition. However, progress is limited and we still have 614 million women and 280 million children globally suffering from it, “said Dr. Francesco Branca, Director of the WHO Food and Safety Division.” Iron deficiency is a major indicator of anemia, and measuring ferritin, a key biomarker of iron metabolism, will help us better target and evaluate our actions in the fight against anemia. ”

Iron is an essential element with important functions such as oxygen transport, DNA synthesis and muscle metabolism. Iron deficiency is a major cause of anemia, which is the most prevalent nutritional deficiency in the world, affecting 33% of pregnant women, 40% of pregnant women and 42% of children worldwide.

In adults, iron deficiency can have adverse effects, including fatigue, impaired physical performance, and reduced work productivity, as well as impact on social activities. Iron deficiency occurs mainly when iron needs increase during rapid periods of growth and development, such as in early childhood, adolescence, and pregnancy, but may also occur in other stages of life. In pregnant women, iron deficiency can cause anemia, decreased birth weight and shortened gestation periods.

New guidelines include early detection of iron overload. Iron overload (accumulation of iron in the body) is mainly the result of disorders such as hereditary haemochromatosis, thalassemia, repeated blood transfusions, or other conditions that affect the absorption or regulation of iron, and can lead to poor health if left untreated.

Improved knowledge of the prevalence and distribution of iron deficiency and the risk of iron overload in the population helps countries decide on appropriate interventions and monitor and evaluate the impact and safety of public health programs. For example, dietary iron deficiency can often be found in a population that also has infectious diseases. Adequate assessment of the state of iron in countries with infectious disorders can help countries implement appropriate health policies.

The WHO Guidelines aim to assist WHO Member States and their partners in making evidence-based decisions about appropriate action in an effort to reduce iron deficiency and improve the health and quality of life of individuals and populations.

For an interview with WHO technical experts, please contact: Pippa HAUGHTON – [email protected] +41794466331

To access a copy of the full guidelines, please to visit