Editorial

Anemia: winning elbow room in the field of hematology and hemotherapy Anemia, one of the most common and widespread disorders in the world, is a public health problem in both industrialized and non-industrialized countries. In 2002, the WHO estimated that anemia resulting from iron deficiency was one of the ten most important factors contributing to the global burden of diseases and that it increases morbidity and mortality in preschool-aged children and pregnant women(1). Anemia is defined as a decrease in the concentration of circulating red blood cells or in the hemoglobin (Hb) concentration and a concomitant impaired oxygen-carrying capacity in order to meet the body`s physiologic needs. Specific physiologic needs vary with a person’s age, gender, altitude of residence, smoking behavior and in different stages of pregnancy(1). Iron deficiency is by far the most common cause of anemia globally (causing approximately 75-80 % of the total burden of anemias), but other nutritional deficiencies (including folate, and vitamins A and B12), acute or chronic inflammation, parasitic infections, and inherited or acquired disorders that affect Hb synthesis, red blood cell production or red blood cell survival, can all cause anemia and can occur alone or together in the same individual(1)