Which nutrient deficiency is most common in various populations?

Iron deficiency is recognized as the most common nutrient deficiency across various populations, particularly affecting women and children globally. This widespread prevalence can largely be attributed to several factors, including inadequate dietary intake of iron-rich foods, increased physiological needs during periods such as pregnancy, and poor absorption related to dietary components or underlying health conditions.

Iron plays a crucial role in the body, primarily as a key component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. When there is a deficiency, it can lead to anemia, characterized by fatigue, weakness, and impaired cognitive function. This has significant public health implications, highlighting the need for strategies aimed at improving iron intake through diet or supplementation, especially in populations at higher risk.

While deficiencies in calcium, vitamin D, and iodine also pose health risks and are prevalent in certain regions, iron deficiency notably appears more frequently across diverse demographics due to a combination of dietary habits, economic factors, and biological demands.