Your Guide to Anemia

This book by the National Institutes of Health (Publication 11-7629) and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute provides an overview of anemia. You’ve probably picked up this book because you’ve read about anemia and are curious to learn more. Perhaps you’ve just been diagnosed, or a family member has been. Or, you’ve had anemia for a while, and you want to learn more about it. People of all ages, races, and ethnicities can develop anemia at some point in their lives. There are many types of anemia, and they are linked to a variety of diseases and conditions. Some types of anemia are very common, and some are very rare. Some are very mild and have little or no impact on a person’s life. Some are severe and can even be life-threatening if not treated aggressively. All anemias have one thing in common, though: They all affect your blood, and that affects your overall health. The good news is that anemia often can be successfully treated or even prevented. It starts with general information—what causes anemia, who is at risk, how it’s diagnosed, and how it’s treated. Then, the book goes into more detail about major types of anemia: iron-deficiency, pernicious, aplastic, and hemolytic. The book wraps up with some closing thoughts about leading a healthy lifestyle, working with your doctor, and talking with your family. These are important things to think about when it comes to anemia. The book doesn’t provide detailed information about all types of anemia.