Abstract

Anemia is a global health problem in older adult population because of the high prevalence and associated significant morbidity and mortality. The reported prevalence of anemia in the elderly is 2.9%–51% and correlates with advanced age and multiple related conditions, including iron deficiency, inflammatory conditions, malignancy and low serum erythropoietin. The simultaneous occurrence of multiple causes of anemia is common in elderly. Elderly patients with anemia are heterogeneous in terms of clinical history, co-existing medical conditions and concomitant medication use than young adults. In elderly anemia is associated with poor performance status, increased dementia, depression, reduced mobility, increased risk of falls and poor quality of life.

Description