Anaemia & Haemoglobin — What Your Blood Count Reveals
Based on WHO anaemia thresholds and ICMR haematology guidelines
Educational content only. This information is for general awareness and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns or before making health decisions.
Key Facts
1.62 billion
People affected by anaemia globally
Per WHO — it is the world's most common blood disorder
57%
Indian women with anaemia
NFHS-5 data for women aged 15–49
13–17 g/dL
Normal Hb for adult men
Below 13 g/dL is considered anaemic
12–15 g/dL
Normal Hb for adult women
Below 12 g/dL is considered anaemic
What is Haemoglobin and Why Does It Matter?
Haemoglobin (Hb) is the iron-containing protein inside red blood cells that binds to oxygen in the lungs and delivers it to every organ and tissue in the body. It also carries carbon dioxide back to the lungs for exhalation.
When haemoglobin levels fall below normal, the condition is called **anaemia**. Anaemic individuals may look and feel normal initially — but over time, inadequate oxygen delivery leads to fatigue, impaired cognition, and in severe cases, heart strain.
The Complete Blood Count (CBC) — Your Blood's Full Report
A CBC (Complete Blood Count) is one of the most commonly ordered tests. It measures:
RBC (Red Blood Cell count):: Total number of red blood cells per volume of blood.
Haemoglobin (Hb):: Oxygen-carrying protein concentration in g/dL.
Haematocrit (HCT):: Percentage of blood volume occupied by red blood cells.
MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume):: Size of red blood cells — key for classifying the type of anaemia.
MCH / MCHC:: How much haemoglobin each cell contains.
Platelets:: Cell fragments essential for clotting.
WBC (White Blood Cell count):: Immune cell count; elevated in infections, lowered in some bone marrow conditions.
The MCV value is particularly useful — small red cells (low MCV) suggest iron deficiency anaemia, while large cells (high MCV) point to B12/folate deficiency (megaloblastic anaemia).
Types of Anaemia — Not All Are the Same
Anaemia has many causes, and identifying the type is essential for correct treatment:
Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA):: Most common. Small, pale red cells (microcytic). Caused by poor dietary intake, menstrual blood loss, or poor absorption. Test: Serum Ferritin, Iron & TIBC.
B12 / Folate Deficiency:: Large red cells (macrocytic/megaloblastic). Common in vegetarians. Test: Serum B12 & Folate.
Haemolytic Anaemia:: Red cells are destroyed faster than they're made. Can be inherited (Thalassaemia, G6PD deficiency) or acquired.
Anaemia of Chronic Disease:: Accompanies long-term conditions like kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or cancer.
Aplastic Anaemia:: Bone marrow fails to produce enough cells — rare but serious.
A CBC combined with peripheral blood smear and additional tests helps determine the exact type.
When Should You Get a CBC?
A CBC is recommended if you experience:
• Persistent fatigue or weakness
• Pale skin, lips, or fingernail beds
• Shortness of breath on mild exertion
• Frequent headaches or dizziness
• Cold hands and feet
• Hair loss or brittle nails
• Pica (craving for ice, dirt, or chalk) — a hallmark of iron deficiency
Routine annual CBC is also advisable for:
• Women with heavy periods
• Pregnant women and those planning pregnancy
• Vegetarians and vegans
• Seniors aged 60+
• People recovering from surgery or illness
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