Tag: Iron overload treatment

While the body normally absorbs only a fraction of dietary iron, people with conditions like hemochromatosis can absorb significantly more, leading to a toxic buildup in vital organs. Addressing this excess requires active intervention to prevent serious health complications, such as liver damage, diabetes, and heart problems.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hereditary hemochromatosis is one of the most common genetic disorders in the United States, affecting about one million people. If your iron is high, it can lead to a condition known as iron overload, which can be toxic to the body and cause damage to vital organs over time.

Chronic red blood cell transfusions can lead to a dangerous buildup of excess iron in the body, a condition known as transfusional iron overload. To combat this, iron chelation therapy is used to remove this excess iron and prevent serious organ damage.