Changes in Serum Lipid Profile with Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anaemia: A Prospective Observational Study

Background: Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is a prevalent nutritional disorder leading to reduced haemoglobin synthesis and impaired oxygen delivery. Beyond its haematological effects, IDA may also alter lipid metabolism, potentially impacting cardiovascular risk. While dyslipidaemia is a recognised CVD risk factor, the effect of iron repletion on lipid parameters remains incompletely understood. This study aimed to evaluate changes in the serum lipid profile of adults with IDA before and after iron therapy. Material and Methods: This prospective, observational study was conducted on 50 adults (18–60 years) diagnosed with IDA at a tertiary care centre. Patients with alcohol-related liver disease, chronic hepatitis, diabetes, or lipid-altering therapy were excluded. Baseline haemoglobin, haematological indices, iron parameters (serum iron, ferritin, TIBC, % saturation), and lipid profile (total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL, HDL) were measured. Participants received oral iron supplementation for three months, after which all parameters were reassessed. Data were analysed using paired t-test and McNemar’s χ² test, with p<0.05 deemed significant. Results: Post-treatment, significant improvements were noted in haemoglobin (9.96 ± 1.13 to 13.14 ± 0.65 g/dL, p<0.00001), serum iron, ferritin, and % saturation, with a reduction in TIBC. Among lipid parameters, triglycerides decreased significantly (218.2 ± 67.69 to 156.2 ± 77.38 mg/dL, p=0.00041), while total cholesterol showed a non-significant decline (236.2 ± 98.48 to 193.8 ± 81.76 mg/dL, p=0.099). LDL, VLDL, and HDL levels did not change significantly. The proportion of patients with normal triglyceride levels increased from 36% to 80% (p=0.00001). Conclusion: Oral iron therapy in IDA patients not only corrects anaemia but is also associated with a significant reduction in serum triglycerides, suggesting a favourable shift in lipid metabolism. These findings support further exploration of iron repletion as a means to mitigate atherogenic risk in iron-deficient individuals.