Tag: Secondary iron overload

Iron is an essential mineral for bodily function, but excess amounts are toxic and can cause serious organ damage. This occurs because the body has no natural mechanism to excrete excess iron, a condition known as iron overload. Understanding what leads to iron overload is crucial for early detection and treatment.

Hereditary hemochromatosis is one of the most common genetic disorders in the United States, affecting about 1 million people. This inherited condition, alongside various acquired factors, can lead to iron overload, a potentially serious condition where the body stores excessive amounts of iron.