The impetus for presentation of this microreview is to relook at the common problem of iron deficiency anaemia with particular reference to current concepts of its pathogenesis, historical perspective and impact on health in human population. Hence this warrants a critical appraisal of the subject. It is appropriate therefore to look into its historical perspective in addition to clearly defining the concept of iron deficiency anaemia as a significant public health problem. It calls for an apt definition of iron deficiency anaemia as it is generally conceived today.