Presentation Abstract

Student's Name: Lillian Byrne '28

Co-registrant Names:

Type of Presentation: Poster Exhibit: One or more registrants displaying posters for discussion

Presentation Title: "Iron Deficiency Anemia in Youth: Assessing Diagnosis Accuracy and Oral Supplementation Effectiveness"

Abstract:

ron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide and is especially prevalent among adolescents, menstruating individuals, and pregnant populations. This presentation was motivated by personal experience and aims to examine the relevance of diagnosing IDA in adolescents, the mechanisms underlying the condition, and the effectiveness and limitations of oral iron supplementation.
Iron is essential for hemoglobin production, oxygen transport, and cellular respiration. It is absorbed in the duodenum, transported by transferrin, stored as ferritin, and regulated by hepcidin. When iron levels are low, the body cannot make enough healthy hemoglobin. This causes red blood cells to be smaller and less able to carry oxygen throughout the body. Diagnosis relies on laboratory markers such as low ferritin, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. Common symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, brittle nails, and pica. Among U.S. females aged 12–21, nearly 40% are affected by iron deficiency and 6% by IDA.
Although oral iron supplementation is the standard treatment, recovery is often limited by poor absorption, gastrointestinal side effects, and slow response. Overall, IDA remains a significant health concern in adolescents, highlighting the need for improved screening and more effective treatment strategies.

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