The relationship between anemia and obesity

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity is linked to a variety of unfavorable outcomes, including anemia, which is a serious global public health problem. The prevalence of obesity along with anemia suggests a relationship between obesity and anemia. Recent studies have demonstrated strong associations between anemia and obesity, chronic diseases, aging, hepato-renal impairment, chronic infection, autoimmune diseases, and widespread malignancy. Thus, the intersection point of obesity and anemia is an important area of attention.

Area covered: This paper reviews the pathophysiology of obesity and anemia. Then, It deliberates the relationship between obesity and different types of anemia and other clinical forms associated with anemia.

Expert opinion: Obesity, especially obesity-related to excessive visceral fat distribution, is accompanied by several disturbances at the endothelial, hormonal, and inflammatory levels. These disturbances induce activation of several mechanisms that contribute to the anemic state. Over-weight patients with chronic anaemias are required to maintain the related vitamins and minerals at optimum levels and appropriate BMI. In addition, a regular clinical follow-up is essential to be scheduled to reduce the risk of complications associated with anemia in obese patients.

Keywords: Obesity; anemia; pathophysiological mechanisms.