Recent estimates based on World Health Organization (WHO) criteria indicate that approximately 1.74 billion people worldwide suffer from iron deficiency anemia, while 39.7% of the global population experiences iron deficiency without anemia (1). In industrialized countries, iron deficiency anemia is less common, affecting 2% to 8% of the population, but the prevalence of iron deficiency—including both anemic and non-anemic individuals—is significantly higher (2).

WHO reports that 20-30% of women of childbearing age in industrialized nations have low or absent iron stores, with even higher rates among adolescent girls (3). However, since the pandemic—where the virus’s replication process consumed large amounts of iron—iron deficiency has surged. Recent data suggests that up to 50% of the Western population is now iron deficient, with rates nearing 80% among menstruating individuals (4).

The British Gastroenterology Society further highlights the widespread nature of iron deficiency, stating:

“Iron deficiency without anemia (confirmed by low serum ferritin—hypoferritinaemia) is three times as common as iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and may cause fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, restless legs, and many other symptoms” (5).

Join Augustine—a women’s health functional medicine provider, midwife, researcher, patient advocate, and survivor of severely debilitating acute iron deficiency—for an eye-opening presentation on testing and treating iron deficiency. This essential discussion is designed to educate healthcare providers, birth workers, and patients on the magnitude of this epidemic and provide guidance on:

✅ Key lab assessments for accurate diagnosis
✅ Recognizing symptoms beyond anemia
✅ New evidence-based reference values for iron status
✅ Effective treatment protocols that address root causes

Empower yourself with cutting-edge knowledge and practical strategies to identify and correct iron deficiency—because optimal iron levels are foundational to overall health and well-being.