Anaemia is one of the most common nutritional problems affecting women in developing countries, where iron deficiency usually combines with other micronutrient deficiencies such as folate and vitamin B. In addition, the diet of the poorest populations is often monotonous and mainly based on staple foods, which are low in iron and contain absorption inhibitors. Other important factors involved in the occurrence of anaemia include malaria and hookworm infestations, chronic infections such as HIV, and congenital conditions like sickle cell disease, among others. Available data indicate that in developing countries the prevalence rates of anaemia among women of .
