Who Is At Risk for Aplastic Anemia?

Aplastic anemia is a rare condition. In the United States, about 500–1,000 people develop this type of anemia each year. It is two to three times more common in Asian countries.

People of all ages can develop aplastic anemia. Men and women are equally likely to have it. It is most common in adolescents and young adults as well as the elderly.

Aplastic anemia is more likely to develop in people who:

• Have been exposed to toxins, certain drugs, or radiation
• Are infected with viruses, such as hepatitis and HIV
• Have an inherited disorder, such as Fanconi anemia, or an autoimmune disease