How can anaemia be prevented?

As most anaemias are caused by a lack of iron, vitamin B12 and/or folic acid, a well-balanced diet is essential. 

It’s furthermore important to test and treat people in high-risk groups (e.g. pre-school children and pregnant women) early, before complications occur.

It’s vital that the underlying cause of the anaemia is identified – not only to ensure successful treatment of the anaemia itself, but to ensure that serious underlying diseases are treated too. 

Speak to your doctor if you think that you (or your child) may have anaemia.

Reviewed by Cape Town-based general practitioner, Dr Dalia Hack. October 2018.

Read more:

- How is anaemia treated?