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What Is Anemia and What Causes It?
Anemia is defined as a reduction in the number of red blood cells or in the amount of hemoglobin they carry, resulting in decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. It is one of the most common...
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Chen · Editorial Policy
Anemia is defined as a reduction in the number of red blood cells or in the amount of hemoglobin they carry, resulting in decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. It is one of the most common hematological conditions worldwide — affecting more than 1.6 billion people globally, according to the WHO — and can range from a mild, easily corrected nutritional deficiency to a severe, life-threatening condition requiring urgent intervention.
What Is Hemoglobin And Why Does It Matter?
Red blood cells (erythrocytes) contain hemoglobin — a complex protein built around iron atoms that binds to oxygen in the lungs and releases it in peripheral tissues. The oxygen-carrying capacity of blood depends on the number of red cells and the amount of functional hemoglobin each contains.
Normal hemoglobin values (approximate):
- Adult men: 13.5–17.5 g/dL
- Adult women: 12.0–15.5 g/dL
- Pregnant women: Above 11 g/dL (lower due to dilution from increased plasma volume)
- Children: Vary by age; generally 11–14 g/dL
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Primary Source
American Society of HematologyMedical Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
About the Author
Dr. Sarah Chen
AI General Practitioner
Dr. Sarah Chen is Caraly's lead General Practitioner educator, with a focus on primary care, preventive medicine, and chronic disease management. Her content is developed in strict alignment with clinical guidelines from the CDC, NIH, and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and is reviewed against current evidence-based standards before publication. With over 200 educational articles published on the platform, Dr. Chen is one of the most prolific health educators in the Caraly network.
Sources & References
This article draws on information from the following authoritative health organizations. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal medical advice.