An alarming rise in hospital admissions linked to vitamin deficiencies has been attributed to the increasing reliance on junk food diets, according to Professor Kamila Hawthorne, Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP), and other health experts in England. NHS statistics reveal a dramatic surge in cases of iron deficiency anemia and vitamin B deficiencies, underscoring the growing public health crisis fueled by poor nutrition.
In 2023/24, the NHS treated 804,936 cases of iron deficiency anemia, a significant increase from 721,650 in the previous year. Hospital admissions specifically for iron deficiency reached 191,927, marking a near 10-fold increase from 1998/99. Similarly, admissions for vitamin B deficiencies more than tripled, with 2,630 cases recorded in 2023/24 compared to 833 in 1998/99.
Experts warn that these deficiencies can lead to severe health complications. Iron deficiency symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, and a swollen tongue, with untreated cases risking heart failure. Vitamin B deficiencies can cause breathlessness, vision problems, and heart palpitations, while deficiencies in calcium and vitamin C have also shown notable increases.
Professor Kamila Hawthorne, chair of the Royal College of GPs (RCGP), described the data as "very concerning," highlighting the impact of unaffordable nutritious foods on health. "Fresh, healthier foods have spiked in price, making nutritious diets out of reach for many, while cheap, filling fast foods lack essential nutrients," she stated.
Children face particular risks, as iron deficiency is linked to developmental delays and poor school performance. Prof. Hawthorne emphasized the importance of prevention, urging the government to adopt a health-first approach to improve dietary access and reduce NHS strain.
A government spokesperson acknowledged the issue, citing a 10-Year Health Plan focused on prevention and nutrition. Meanwhile, health chiefs recommend increasing dietary intake of iron-rich foods like red meat, beans, and fortified cereals, alongside leafy greens and dairy products for B vitamins.
As poverty and poor nutrition continue to fuel this crisis, the need for urgent action has never been clearer.