What condition is characterized by lower levels of red blood cells or hemoglobin?

Anemia is a condition defined by a reduction in the number of red blood cells (RBCs) or a decrease in hemoglobin levels in the blood. Hemoglobin is the protein within red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body, so lower levels can lead to insufficient oxygen delivery to tissues, resulting in fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms. Anemia can be caused by various factors, including nutritional deficiencies (such as iron, vitamin B12, or folate), chronic diseases, or genetic conditions.

Understanding anemia is crucial because it directly affects a person’s overall health. By recognizing the symptoms and diagnosis of anemia, phlebotomy technicians can contribute to proper patient management and prompt treatment when necessary. In contrast, leukemia involves the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells, hypoxia refers to low oxygen levels in tissues, and thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel, none of which directly pertain to red blood cell or hemoglobin levels.