Association between iron deficiency Anemia and allergic conditions: A retrospective analysis

BackgroundIron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a prevalent nutritional deficiency linked to immune modulation and allergic conditions. This study investigates the association between IDA and allergic diseases, including atopic dermatitis, asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergy, and allergic eosinophilia.ObjectiveTo evaluate the association between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and the prevalence of allergic conditions, including atopic dermatitis, asthma, allergic rhinitis, food allergy, and allergic eosinophilia, using a large nationally representative dataset.MethodsA retrospective, cross-sectional design was employed using data from the National Inpatient Sample (2016-2020). Logistic regression models adjusted for confounders such as payer type, race, socioeconomic status, and hospital characteristics were used to assess associations.ResultsAmong 32,966,720 patients, 1,247,309 (3.8%) had IDA. After adjustment, IDA was significantly associated with increased odds of allergic conditions: atopic dermatitis (OR = 1.30), asthma (OR = 1.21), allergic rhinitis (OR = 1.21), food allergy (OR = 1.18), and allergic eosinophilia (OR = 1.24).ConclusionIDA was significantly associated with allergic conditions in this analysis, suggesting that iron status may represent a clinically relevant factor in patients with allergic diseases, as seen in this large national inpatient sample. Future longitudinal studies are needed to clarify causal pathways and develop targeted interventions. Addressing nutritional deficiencies may reduce the burden of allergic diseases and improve health outcomes.