Iron and its associations with cardiovascular disease risk factors: Iron, anthropometry and biological markers of cardiovascular disease

In many developing countries, iron deficiency (the most common micronutrient deficiency) still remains unresolved; while obesity has emerged as a public health challenge causing increases in the incidence and prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Research has shown that certain iron indices are associated with both anthropometric and biological markers of CVDs. Adiposity is thought to modulate the pathway linking iron status to CVDs. This research work examined the associations between iron indices, anthropometric and biological markers of CVDs in an African population undergoing transition. Though, there was no significant association between iron indices and biological markers of CVDs but, its association with anthropometric indices gives an indication of the possible contribution of iron in the aetiology of CVDs. Thus, it may be necessary to exercise caution on the emphasis placed on iron as a nutrient and iron intervention programmes because of the suggestive role of iron in CVD development.