Iron Deficiency Anemia in Kids

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in children and adolescents, but it can sometimes be easy to miss. From the toddler who drinks almost exclusively milk to the adolescent athlete struggling to keep up with their peers or the teen with heavy menstrual bleeding and persistent fatigue, these patients may present differently while sharing the same underlying diagnosis.  In this episode, we explore iron deficiency anemia in pediatric patients, including why it remains so common, which children and adolescents may be at increased risk, and the clinical clues that can help pediatricians recognize iron deficiency before it becomes a missed opportunity. Joining us for this important conversation is Akhila Vadivelan, MD, a pediatric hematologist/oncologist at Children's Hospital Colorado and an assistant professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.  Some highlights from this episode include: Evaluation, diagnosis and management of iron deficiency anemia  What this diagnosis means for different populations  Clinical clues pediatricians should look out for  When treatment makes sense  For more information on Children's Colorado, visit: childrenscolorado.org.