Six continents unite for World Anemia Awareness Day, 13 February 2026 — a 24-hour global journey of stories, conversations, and collaboration.
Anemia is a serious global public health problem that particularly affects young children and pregnant women. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 42% of children less than 5 years of age and 40% of pregnant women worldwide are anemic. Worldwide this is 2.4 billion people, it is estimated that there are an additional 1-2 billion have iron deficiency. World Anemia Awareness Day is held on 13 February as the number 13 represents the ideal hemoglobin number for optimal blood health. World Anemia Awareness Day aims to raise awareness of anemia and iron deficiency and to become a global driver to promote the importance of preventative action to support blood health.
Prof. Shannon Farmer, IFPBM Scientific Associate states: ‘Anemia is one of the world’s biggest health issues and yet awareness of the problem is very low. World Anemia Awareness Day is a key date to connect experts, communities and individuals in the call for stronger blood health for all.’
The International Foundation for Patient Blood Management (IFPBM) fully supports World Anemia Awareness Day and encourage all to be involved in the ‘Hands Up for Blood Health’ Anemia-thon on February 13.