The lack of standardized clinical practices for managing iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in women poses a significant challenge globally, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. To address this concern, a Delphi consensus process was employed to determine best practices. Experts rated their agreement with 99 statements across four domains in two rounds. Consensus was achieved for 84% of the statements, with agreement on the significance of symptoms and risk factors in prompting assessments, the importance of preventive iron supplementation for pregnant women and those in high-prevalence areas, and the use of oral ferrous iron as first-line therapy for uncomplicated ID/IDA. Recommendations and clinical pathway algorithms generated from this process aim to standardize care for women at risk or presenting with ID/IDA in the Asia-Pacific region, highlighting the critical role of obstetrician-gynecologists in their identification, diagnosis, and management.

Patient involvement in decision-making around iron supplementation was emphasized to improve adherence and clinical outcomes. These consensus statements represent an important step towards standardizing care for women with ID/IDA and should be periodically reviewed to align with evolving medical literature and international guidelines, ensuring consistency in clinical practice within the region.

Reference: Pai RD, Chong YS, Clemente-Chua LR, et al. Prevention and Management of Iron Deficiency/Iron-Deficiency Anemia in Women: An Asian Expert Consensus. Nutrients. 2023 Jul 13;15(14):3125. doi: 10.3390/nu15143125. PMID: 37513543; PMCID: PMC10383547.