Understanding Iron: Insights from the “Iron Testing Webinar”

The Iron Testing Webinar focuses on the essential mineral iron, which plays a critical role in oxygen transport and energy production. Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide, making it vital to understand how iron is absorbed, utilised, and managed in the body. This session explores the complexities of iron metabolism and provides practical guidance on reading and interpreting iron studies and Full Blood Counts (FBC). Attendees will also learn how to differentiate between various types of anaemia, improving diagnostic accuracy.

Identifying Those at Risk

The webinar highlights groups at higher risk for iron deficiency, including:

• Children: Growing bodies with increased iron requirements.
• Menstruating Individuals: Blood loss during periods can deplete iron stores.
• Vegetarians: Diets lacking in haem iron sources.

Physical exams and factors affecting iron absorption are also discussed, including:

• Dietary Inhibitors: Such as phytates and calcium.
• Dietary Enhancers: Like vitamin C, which aids iron absorption.
• Medications: The impact of drugs that interfere with iron levels.

Iron Supplements and Absorption

The webinar explores the role of iron supplements, covering:

• The different forms of iron available, such as ferrous sulfate and ferric citrate.
• Vitamins and minerals that either aid or inhibit absorption.

Interpreting Iron Studies and Diagnosing Anaemia

Participants will gain insights into interpreting key iron markers, including:

• Serum Iron: Reflecting circulating iron levels.
• Transferrin and Transferrin Saturation: Indicators of iron transport and availability.
• Ferritin: A marker of iron stores and inflammation.

Conditions like haemochromatosis are also discussed, helping clinicians differentiate between iron overload and deficiency. Additionally, attendees will work through FBC analytes to identify types of anaemia, such as:

• Microcytic Anaemia: Often caused by iron deficiency.
• Macrocytic Anaemia: Related to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.
• Normocytic Anaemia: Associated with chronic disease or acute blood loss.

Practical Outcomes

By the end of the session, participants will have the tools to assess and support patients with iron-related health concerns effectively. From identifying at-risk groups to interpreting complex iron studies, this webinar provides a systematic approach to improving clinical practice.