Global Trends in Iron Deficiency Anemia Among Women of Childbearing Age, 1990–2021

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a leading nutritional disorder among women aged 15–49, contributing to maternal morbidity, impaired offspring development, and reduced productivity. Tracking its burden over time guides interventions. The analysis draws on the Global Burden of Disease 2021 dataset to quantify prevalence and disability-adjusted life years.

Nature

GBD 2021 data show the age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) of IDA fell from 1990 to 2021 (EAPC = –0.11, 95 % CI –0.13 to –0.08). Yet total DALYs rose from 18.01 million to 22.93 million, while the age-standardized DALY rate dropped from 668.3 to 598 per 100,000 (EAPC = –0.37, 95 % CI –0.39 to –0.34).

Nature

Stratification by the sociodemographic index (SDI) shows high-SDI regions achieved marked reductions in prevalence and DALY rates, while low-SDI regions progressed more slowly, with some showing stagnant or rising age-standardized rates. The gap highlights socioeconomic influence on nutritional health.

Nature

The decline in age-standardized rates alongside rising absolute DALYs indicates that population growth may offset program gains. Targeted measures—iron supplementation, food fortification, education—remain essential, especially in low-SDI settings where the burden persists. The authors also project trends to 2040 to inform future policy planning.

Nature

The study authors explain that their analysis covered global, regional, and national IDA burden from 1990 to 2021, examined links to socioeconomic development, and projected trends to 2040. They report that while age-standardized prevalence and DALY rates have declined, the absolute disease burden remains higher in low-SDI regions, highlighting the need for targeted, equitable interventions.

Nature

• “High SDI regions experienced significant reductions in IDA burden, whereas low SDI regions showed slower improvement.” — Study authors

Nature

• “Conclusion Although the global burden of IDA among women of childbearing age has declined, regional disparities persist; high SDI regions have progressed, while low SDI regions still face a growing disease burden, underscoring the need for targeted and equitable interventions.” — Study authors

Nature

Projections to 2040 suggest age-standardized rates will keep falling if interventions expand, but absolute DALYs may rise without intensified action in low-SDI countries. The authors recommend broader surveillance, stronger nutrition policies, and addressing socioeconomic determinants to achieve equitable IDA reductions. The projection to 2040 builds on the observed declines in age-standardized rates.

Nature