The Hague • 31 January 2024
Guidance for pharmacists to manage symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia (including supporting self-care) and to prevent the condition is shared in a handbook published by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) today.
Anaemia is a global public health concern, affecting people of all ages and demographic groups, with implications for morbidity and mortality. Iron deficiency anaemia, which affects 1.2 billion people worldwide, is preventable and treatable, highlighting the importance of early detection and the need for this new resource from FIP.
“With the increasing role of pharmacists in the healthcare system, pharmacists can play a vital role in providing health information on the prevention and management of iron deficiency anaemia. It is, therefore, a pleasure to present this comprehensive handbook for pharmacists to serve as a guiding resource. This handbook was developed in response to the recommendations from a FIP roundtable report in 2022, which highlighted the increasing opportunity for pharmacists to contribute to achieving the World Health Organization’s target of reducing anaemia by 50% among women of reproductive age by 2025,” said FIP CEO Dr Catherine Duggan.
The handbook describes iron deficiency anaemia roles for pharmacists in community pharmacies, hospitals and research. It also provides the knowledge needed to offer advice to special populations, such as children, non-pregnant women of reproductive age, pregnant individuals and breastfeeding mothers, elderly people with chronic diseases, and patients with chronic blood loss.
Notes for editors
ABOUT FIP
The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) is the global federation of national associations of pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists, and is in official relations with the World Health Organization. Through our 156 member organisations, we represent over four million practitioners and scientists around the world. Our vision is a world where everyone benefits from access to safe, effective, quality and affordable medicines and pharmaceutical care. www.fip.org
PRESS CONTACT
Laila Ghorab
Communications Coordinator
International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP)
Email laila@fip.org