Pharmacists urge Aussies to check their iron levels as recent study finds link to cardiovascular disease

Up to 60 percent of patients with coronary artery disease have iron deficiency

Around 12 percent of Australian women, eight percent of pre-school-aged children, and 20 percent of people over 85 years are anaemic

Iron deficiency has emerged as a common concern among patients with cardiovascular disease, according to a recent study published in the European Heart Journal. The research further suggests that the prevalence of iron deficiency rises along with the severity of cardiac and renal dysfunction and may be more prominent among women.

Iron is a crucial dietary mineral that plays a role in various bodily functions, including the transport of oxygen in the blood. The normal range of haemoglobin, a protein responsible for delivery of oxygen to tissues, is generally defined as 125 to 185 grams (g) of haemoglobin per litre (L) of blood for men and 115 to 165 g/L for women. Haemoglobin levels can detect the presence of low iron levels in the blood.

Considering the study findings and to emphasise the vital role of iron levels in maintaining good overall health, Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist, Zena Daher is encouraging Australians to visit their local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacy for a quick, safe, and convenient iron screening test.

“Iron screening services are essential for detecting and preventing iron deficiency and iron overload early. By identifying abnormal iron levels promptly, individuals can receive timely treatment to prevent associated symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, shortness of breath and organ damage, and can be an indicator of other co-morbidities,” she explains.

The iron screening test is a quick, convenient, and low-cost test which takes less than five minutes. It is conducted by a Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist or trained team member.

“Your Pharmacist will then provide guidance on next steps, such as recommending a visit to a doctor if required, or advising on making dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, or incorporating iron supplements to address the deficiency,” Ms Daher says.

In its commitment to promoting better iron health for Australians, and to assist with health costs and GP access issues, the Blooms The Chemist Community Pharmacy Network offers its iron screening test for as low as $5. Their Pharmacists encourage Australians to visit one of their Pharmacies today to get screened and to have a conversation about their overall iron health.

For more information about the iron screening test offered by Blooms The Chemist, click here.