Contrary to the common belief that only iron deficiency leads to anaemia, a recent study has proved that Vitamin B12 deficiency and air pollution are also key factors for the condition.
The study identified that iron deficiency is responsible for only one-third of anaemia cases, much less than previously estimated by surveys including the National Family Health Survey (NFHS).
Human health is affected by the combined impacts of environmental and nutritional factors, owing to Vitamin B12 deficiency and air pollution. The impact becomes more severe due to this combination, affecting the production and function of red blood cells (RBC).
How does a deficiency of Vitamin B12 cause anaemia?
Vitamin B12 deficiency alone can cause anaemia by impairing the body’s ability to produce healthy red blood cells. This vitamin is crucial for DNA synthesis and the proper development of red blood cells.
When B12 levels are low, the body produces larger but fewer and less functional red blood cells, leading to megaloblastic anaemia. Common causes of B12 deficiency include poor dietary intake, malabsorption issues and certain medications.
How does air pollution intensify anaemic conditions?
Air pollution is rampant in several Indian cities and has been found to be another important reason for anaemia, as per the study.
Air pollutants, specifically fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and toxic gases are found to have an impact on accelerating anaemia in people.
The presence of PM2.5 and toxic gases can trigger systemic inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Even when the individual meets adequate dietary requirements, the ability of the human body to absorb and utilise Vitamin B12 is affected by the inflammatory response.
Damage due to twin effects
The production of erythropoietin is suppressed by conditions—the deficiency of B12 and the presence of air pollution—resulting in damage to bone marrow cells. Further, the deficiency of Vitamin B12 affects the formation of RBCs. This combined effect can lead to severe anaemic conditions.
The generated RBCs, which are already affected, get easily destroyed by the oxidative stress caused by air pollutants.
Pregnant women and the elderly are affected more
The double challenge of improper RBC production and survival affects pregnant women, elderly individuals and people living in severely polluted urban areas.
Such vulnerable populations face difficulty in maintaining adequate B12 levels due to dietary restrictions or absorption issues, and air pollution exposure can magnify these problems.
Apart from the earlier belief that iron deficiency is the primary cause of anaemia, this dual challenge calls for more careful diagnosis from healthcare professionals. Those affected may require vitamin supplements and measures to stay safe from air pollution.
