Residents of Swansea are invited to a free public event on iron deficiency and anaemia at HMT Sancta Maria Hospital on Tuesday 10 March 2026 (6pm–8pm). (See flyer attached).
The open evening, hosted in partnership with new charity, IronLife, will address one of the biggest issues in the NHS – the ‘misogyny of health care’. Specifically, the problems women face in getting recognition and treatment for conditions such as iron deficiency and anaemia, often due to heavy menstrual periods and pregnancy. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world and affects around one in three women, yet it is frequently overlooked even though it is one of the most common causes for disability in women of reproductive age and ability. Symptoms include fatigue and tiredness, difficulty climbing stairs with shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain or palpitations but also brain fog, forgetfulness, poor concentration, anxiety and, low mood (see image attached).
In Wales, anaemia affects approximately 12-22% of women, and research published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia reports anaemia rates of 29.4% in patients undergoing surgery, with over 60% of cases linked to iron deficiency. These patients, have higher transfusion rates, spend longer in hospital and suffer more complications.
Professor Toby Richards, Chair of IronLife, is an internationally recognised iron deficiency specialist, will present information about the SHINE screening project which aims to improve awareness, diagnosis and treatment of iron deficiency.
Professor Richards said: “Iron deficiency is incredibly common but widely under-recognised. Many people live with symptoms such as exhaustion or low mood for years without realising there may be a treatable medical cause. This event is about helping people understand the signs, when to seek testing and what treatment options are available.”
During the evening, attendees will learn:
- What iron deficiency is and why it matters
- Common symptoms and who is most at risk
- How Anaemia & iron deficiency is diagnosed (with free finger prick testing)
- Treatment options and when to seek medical help
Jude Hall, Hospital Director at HMT Sancta Maria Hospital added: “We are delighted to host this important event in partnership with IronLife. Iron deficiency and anaemia affect many people across our community, yet the symptoms are often overlooked or misunderstood. By opening our doors for this public event, we hope to raise awareness, support earlier diagnosis and ensure people know when and how to seek help.”
The event also marks the expansion of The Iron Clinichttps://www.theironclinic.com/ to HMT Sancta Maria Hospital, bringing expertise in iron deficiency to patients in South Wales.
The evening will introduce the work of IronLife, the first and only charity dedicated to improving public awareness of iron deficiency and supporting early diagnosis through education, research and community screening initiatives such as the SHINE screening project.
The event is free and open to the public, including journalists, patients, healthcare professionals interested in learning more about iron health.
Media contact for IronLife:
Janine Hogan, Strategic Lead, IronLife
Mobile: 07990696970
Email: janine@ironlife.org.uk
Follow IronLife https://www.ironlife.org.uk/:
#ironlifeUK #SHINEscreening #irondeficiency #CheckYourIron #womenshealth #WorldAnaemiaAwarenessDay
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