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 DCI Home: Blood Diseases: Pernicious Anemia: Risk

      Pernicious Anemia
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Who Is At Risk for Pernicious Anemia

Populations Affected

People of all races can develop pernicious anemia. However, people of northern European or African descent have a higher risk than other races and ethnic groups.

Men and women in the United States are equally likely to develop the disease. It is more common in older adults than younger people, and it is rare in children.

Major Risk Factors

A person’s chances of developing pernicious anemia may be higher if he or she has:

  • A family history of pernicious anemia (blood relatives with the disease)
  • A disorder such as diabetes or a thyroid problem
  • An intestinal disorder that keeps the body from absorbing vitamin B12 well

Pernicious anemia is more likely to develop in people who do not eat foods high in vitamin B12 for long periods of time. This includes some vegetarians, elderly people, and people with alcoholism.


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