In this 2019 article, Pivina et al. discuss iron deficiency since it is associated with neurobehavioral disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While more than 25% of the world’s population is affected by anemia, the incidence of iron deficiency anemia specifically is greater than 50%. Moreover, it is children below 7 years old who are the most vulnerable to iron deficiency. Iron is essential for brain metabolism and can disrupt neurotransmitter homeostasis if consumption levels are too low. Insufficient intake of iron can also decrease myelin production, and lead to a decline in basal ganglia function. Iron deficiency anemia negatively influences cognitive functions and psychomotor development. In fact, iron deficiency is found to be a common comorbidity in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder. It is said that having insufficient amounts of iron also induces or worsens the effects of any other nutrient shortages. This may ultimately have a negative impact on the developing brain and other organs in infants. To tackle this issue of iron deficiency anemia, several countries have already started to develop programs incorporating iron supplementation, intake of fortified food and drinks, improved food safety, and monitoring of diets. Based on the current recommendations of the World Health Organization on cost-effectiveness, these previously mentioned programs (involving iron fortification and iron supplementation) can be regarded as cost-effective or highly cost-effective in most countries of the world in reducing/preventing cognitive dysfunction.
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