Soo-ul-Qiniya (Iron Deficiency Anaemia): Historical Succinct Review

Abstract

Anaemia or Iron deficiency anaemia is a widespread health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Anemia is a state in which the body lacks sufficient haemoglobin, a protein located in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to various tissues of the body. This lack of haemoglobin can result in a decrease in the concentration of haemoglobin in the blood or a reduced percentage of haemoglobin as compared to the required level. Haemoglobin is a vital constituent of blood, which plays a crucial role in the body. It helps to transport oxygen to tissues and organs for growth and proper functioning as per the body's requirements. When the haemoglobin levels fall below the required level, the body's tissues and organs do not receive enough oxygen, which can result in various warning signs such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and dizziness. The most prevalent form of anaemia is iron deficiency anaemia, which occurs when the body doesn't have enough iron to generate haemoglobin. It is frequently seen in hospitals especially in underdeveloped countries, with a higher prevalence of 20.8–73% among reproductive, non-pregnant women of childbearing age. Iron deficiency anaemia can also occur in men and women of any age group, especially those who do not consume enough iron-rich foods or have a poor diet. Unani physicians have suggested the use of liver tonics to treat anaemia. Ibn Sina has mentioned in Al-Qanoon that ‘Soo-ul-Qiniya’ is a condition in which the skin looks pale and yellowish, and swelling occurs on the face and body. There are plenty of iron supplements available in the market that can boost the body's iron levels, but they can lead to adverse effects such as digestive problems and low adherence. It is essential to understand the history of iron deficiency anaemia to address more aspects of this complex situation. The condition has been recognized for centuries, and there is a wealth of knowledge available on its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. By learning more about this condition, we can better understand its prevention and management, thereby improving the quality of life for patients suffering from this condition