BASKING RIDGE, N.J. — Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. today announced a partnership with dancer, choreographer and TV host Carrie Ann Inaba on Get Iron Informed, a campaign to raise awareness of Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) –  a common type of anemia that can occur when iron levels are insufficient to generate healthy red blood cells. Ms. Inaba is partnering with Daiichi Sankyo, Inc. to share her personal experience living with the condition, and reach those who are undiagnosed and at risk so they understand the importance of speaking to their doctor about their iron levels.

IDA affects an estimated five million adults in the United States and one in five women of childbearing age. There are several medical conditions that can put both men and women at risk for IDA, including women’s health issues, gastrointestinal (GI) conditions like inflammatory bowel diseases, cancer, chronic kidney disease and heart failure.² 

“As a dancer, it was tough when I found myself not having enough energy to get through the day. I went to my doctor because I was feeling different, and knew something was wrong,” explained Ms. Inaba. “My doctor gave me a blood test and found that my iron and hemoglobin levels were very low. He told me that my fibroids caused Iron Deficiency Anemia to develop, which I learned is common. Since then, I’ve been working with my doctor on a treatment plan to manage my iron levels, which is so important for my overall health.”

At GetIronInformed.com, visitors can access easy-to-understand information and educational resources about IDA, as well as learn about certain pre-existing health conditions that could affect their iron levels. They can also find out about which diagnostic blood tests identify IDA, and how to discuss their health concerns with their doctors.

“Patients with medical conditions that can put them at risk for IDA should talk to their doctor to find out if a blood test to check their iron levels is right for them,” said Dr. Stephanie Martin, OB/GYN. “IDA can be a manageable condition by working with your doctor to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.”

Mild to moderate IDA may have no signs or symptoms, but as it progresses, IDA can cause people to experience fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, headaches, dizziness or brittle nails. However, signs and symptoms alone cannot diagnose IDA.

“For people living with medical conditions that put them at risk for IDA, our goal is to help them understand how to best manage their IDA,” said Dr. Linda Mundy, chief medical officer at American Regent, a member of the Daiichi Sankyo Group. “We’re proud to work with Carrie Ann Inaba on this campaign to raise awareness about IDA, and encourage patients to talk to their doctors and learn more about their iron levels.”

For more information about IDA and to learn more about Ms. Inaba’s story, please visit GetIronInformed.com.