Are Anemia and MTHFR Gene Mutations Connected?
Anemia is a common blood condition affecting around 1.62 billion people1 worldwide, or 24.8% of the global population.
Preschool-age children have the highest prevalence of anemia, but the demographic with the highest number affected is non-pregnant women at 468 million people worldwide.
Anemia occurs when the body’s iron stores are too low to produce hemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells that enables them to carry oxygen.
Anemia is diagnosed when hemoglobin is less than 12 g per deciliter2 in women and less than 13 g/dL in men.
Hemoglobin below these levels results in a lack of oxygen to cells where it is required for various metabolic pathways. Symptoms include fatigue3, weakness, pale skin, chest pains, irregular heartbeat, and lightheadedness.
The pathophysiology of anemia depends on the cause. It can include nutrient deficiency (especially iron, B12, and folate), blood loss, and various medical conditions that can lead to excessive breakdown of red blood cells, low red blood cell production, or a deficiency in the normal functioning of red blood cells.
Recent research suggests that genetic influences such as the MTHFR gene mutation may also contribute due to the role that MTHFR defects play in nutrient metabolism.
This article will discuss how MTHFR is related to anemia and whether it can increase the risk of developing anemia. We will also explain treatment options for those with both MTHFR mutations and anemia and whether supplementation can help.
