Fortún PA, Gort CO, Campo DMC

Language: Spanish
References: 0
Page: 689-696
PDF size: 299.93 Kb.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: the deficiency of iron and/or folic acid are frequent in the elderly and are causes of anemia for old people, which constitutes one of the most frequent geriatric problems, however, the existence of inflammatory or infectious chronic disorders is the most frequent cause of anemia for them.
Objective: determine the levels of hemoglobin and the most frequent causes of anemia in the geriatric population is a necessity to achieve a coherent approach to this problem and contribute to a better state of health in the elderly.
Method: hemoglobin level was determined in 62 old people, comparing the results with a group of healthy young individuals. In those with anemia, investigations were carried out aimed at its classification, as well as the identification of its cause.
Results: the average level of hemoglobin did not differ from the young population and the presence of anemia was frequent among the elderly studied. The most frequent cause was "anemia associated with chronic disorders". Iron, vitamin B12 and / or folic acid deficiencies were not frequent.
Conclusions: the average levels of hemoglobin in the elderly do not differ from those of the young population and it does not contrast to gender, although it decreases with age. The most frequent cause of anemia in the elderly is associated with chronic disorders.