ST. GALLEN, SWITZERLAND-- November 26, 2021 -- Already for the seventh consecutive year of Iron Deficiency Day, Vifor Pharma is supporting a growing international alliance including the Heart Failure Policy Network, European Kidney Health Alliance, Global Heart Hub and Croí the West of Ireland Cardiac Foundation with the aim to educate people about the importance of iron for the body and what can happen if iron levels are not properly managed. Iron Deficiency Day 2021 encourages people at risk to listen to their body, to take iron seriously and to take control over their health by seeking early diagnosis and medical help from their physician.

Iron Deficiency affects about half of the patients with chronic kidney disease[2] and chronic heart failure and is associated with reduced quality of life[3], an increased risk of hospitalization[4] and cardiovascular death[5]. Despite the serious consequences and high prevalence, of iron deficiency, the condition remains under-recognized[6]. Diagnosis and treatment of iron deficiency has been further impaired during the COVID-19 pandemic as patients have been facing limited access to healthcare, resulting in even more cases going undiagnosed.

“We are pleased to join our partners in supporting Iron Deficiency Day 2021, at a time when pressures on healthcare systems exacerbated by the pandemic mean that awareness around the importance of iron is more pertinent than ever,” commented Abbas Hussain, CEO of Vifor Pharma Group. “Together, we are dedicated to support people at risk of and living with iron deficiency or iron deficiency anemia so they can lead better, healthier lives.”

“COVID-19 is having a significant impact on access to care. With many healthcare systems facing significant backlogs, patients experiencing iron deficiency symptoms have been less likely to seek support from healthcare professionals.” said Dr. Ewa Anita Jankowska, Professor at Wroclaw Medical University, Poland. “However, iron deficiency is easily diagnosed and treatable. It is therefore vital that we raise awareness of this debilitating disease and ensure individuals understand how to recognize the symptoms and gain access to early diagnosis and treatment options.”