23 Aug USPSTF Evaluates Screening and Supplementation for Iron Deficiency and Iron Deficiency Anemia During Pregnancy

Dr. Davis

Esa M. Davis, M.D., M.P.H , F.A.A.F.P
Professor of Medicine and Family and Community Medicine
Associate Vice President of Community Health and
Senior Associate Dean of pPopulation Health and Community Medicine
University of Maryland School of Medicine
Dr. Davis joined the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force in January 2021

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?

Response: Iron is important to overall health, and people need more iron when they are pregnant. This can make pregnant people at increased risk for iron deficiency, which can progress to anemia and cause complications for both moms and their babies. After reviewing the latest available research, the Task Force found that there is not enough evidence on whether pregnant people who do not have signs or symptoms of iron deficiency or anemia should be screened—or take iron supplements—to improve their health or the health of their baby.  

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response: Iron is especially important to helping people stay healthy during pregnancy, but more research is needed on whether or not pregnant people should be screened for iron deficiency and anemia or take iron supplements if they do not have signs or symptoms of these conditions. Recognizing the importance of prenatal care, in the absence of evidence, healthcare professionals should use their best clinical judgement and listen to any patient concerns when deciding how best to care for their pregnant patients. 

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a results of this study?

Response: We first need studies on whether or not changes in iron levels as the result of supplements or treatment lead to better health in those who screened positive for iron deficiency. We also need more research on the benefits and harms of screening and supplementation for iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. It is critical that this research is conducted in settings that are reflective of the U.S. population, particularly in Black and Mexican American populations, which have higher rates of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy.

MedicalResearch.com: Is there anything else you would like to add? Any disclosures?

Response: This is not a recommendation for or against screening or supplementation, it is a call for more research. However, the Task Force recognizes that iron deficiency screening and supplementation is commonly done during prenatal visits for a variety of reasons. It is also important to emphasize that this recommendation is only for people without signs or symptoms of iron deficiency. Of course, if a pregnant patient shares any concerns, healthcare professionals should ensure they get the care they need, which could include screening tests, iron supplements, or guidance on consuming a diet containing iron-rich foods.

Citation:
Screening and Supplementation for Iron Deficiency and Iron Deficiency Anemia During Pregnancy
US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement
US Preventive Services Task Force
JAMA. Published online August 20, 2024. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.15196

US Preventive Services Task Force
USPSTF Review: Screening and Supplementation for Iron Deficiency During Pregnancy
Amy G. Cantor, MD, MPH; Rebecca Holmes, MD, MS; Christina Bougatsos, MPH; Chandler Atchison, MPH; Thomas DeLoughery, MD; Roger Chou, MD
JAMA

JAMA Patient Page
Screening for Iron Deficiency and Iron Deficiency Anemia During Pregnancy
Jill Jin, MD, MPH
JAMA

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Last Updated on August 23, 2024 by Marie Benz MD FAAD