What causes anaemia?

• A. High calcium intake
• B. Vitamin A excess
• C. Nutrient deficiencies and infections
• D. Excessive exercise

Answer: (C)

Anaemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency in the number or quality of red blood cells, which can lead to reduced oxygen transport in the body. The most common causes of anaemia include nutrient deficiencies—particularly of iron, vitamin B12, and folate—as well as infections that affect the bone marrow or increase the destruction of red blood cells.

When there is a lack of essential nutrients, the body cannot produce enough healthy red blood cells. For example, iron is crucial for hemoglobin production, and without sufficient iron, the body cannot produce adequate red blood cells, leading to iron-deficiency anaemia. Additionally, certain infections can lead to conditions like aplastic anaemia or hemolytic anaemia, where either the production of red blood cells is hindered or the existing cells are destroyed more quickly than they can be replenished.

The other options, while they may seem plausible at a glance, do not directly cause anaemia in the same way. High calcium intake can sometimes interfere with iron absorption but does not inherently cause anaemia on its own. Vitamin A excess can't be linked directly to anaemia, as its primary role is not related to red blood cell production. Excessive exercise can lead to other health issues, including certain types