What is a deficiency of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood called?

A deficiency of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood is referred to as anemia. This condition occurs when the number of red blood cells is lower than normal, or when the hemoglobin within these cells is inadequate to meet the body’s needs. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and returning carbon dioxide to be exhaled.

In anemia, the reduced capability of the blood to carry oxygen can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and pallor. Various types of anemia can arise from different causes, including nutritional deficiencies (like iron or vitamin B12 deficiencies), chronic diseases, or bone marrow disorders.

Other options refer to unrelated conditions. Leukemia is a type of cancer that involves the blood and bone marrow, which typically results in an overproduction of white blood cells. Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that affects the blood’s ability to clot properly. Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by the abnormal production of hemoglobin, which can also lead to anemia but is specifically a type of anemia rather than the general term for it.