Iron Deficiency Without Anemia Among Young Women in Outpatient Practice

Abstract

Iron deficiency may produce clinically significant symptoms even before anemia develops. Early identification may improve quality of life and prevent disease progression. This observational study investigated the clinical presentation of iron deficiency without anemia among young women attending outpatient clinics. Fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance, impaired concentration, and hair loss were frequently reported despite normal hemoglobin concentrations. Laboratory evaluation identified depleted iron stores in many symptomatic participants. Early recognition of iron deficiency before the onset of anemia may facilitate timely nutritional counseling and targeted supplementation.