# Iron deficiency prevalence and nutritional management > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/iron-deficiency-prevalence-and-nutritional-management > Updated: 2026-10-13T08:33:02.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Iron deficiency is a widespread issue affecting millions in Europe, with prevalence rates estimated between 5% and 10%. High-risk groups include children, women before menopause, infants, adolescents, pregnant women, and individuals with heavy menstrual cycles or regular blood donations. In athletic contexts, deficiency can impair endurance performance. Female endurance athletes are noted as particularly vulnerable, with some studies reporting prevalence rates as high as 60%. Dietary management focuses on the two forms of iron: heme iron from animal sources, which is highly bioavailable, and non-heme iron from plant sources, which has lower absorption rates. Consuming vitamin C alongside plant-based iron can significantly improve absorption by helping to maintain non-heme iron in a soluble form. Medical diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure ferritin levels, though professionals must interpret these results carefully as inflammation or other illnesses can influence the data. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-13: Nutritional strategies to prevent iron deficiency and anemia Iron deficiency can cause anemia and fatigue. Consuming vitamin C alongside plant-based iron sources can improve absorption, while animal-based heme iron is more readily assimilated by the body. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nutritional-strategies-to-prevent-iron-deficiency-and-anemia ### 2026-09-20: Iron deficiency affects millions and impacts athletic performance Iron deficiency impacts millions, particularly women and athletes. While plant-based iron absorption is low, vitamin C can enhance it. Deficiency can significantly impair physical endurance. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/iron-deficiency-affects-millions-and-impacts-athletic-performance --- Cite as: Iron deficiency prevalence and nutritional management. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/iron-deficiency-prevalence-and-nutritional-management