What factors contribute to anemia?

Many factors can contribute to a low red blood cell count, known as anemia. One of the most common reasons for anemia is iron deficiency, which can happen if a person does not consume enough dietary iron or losses iron because of bleeding. Vitamin B12, folic acid and other micronutrient deficiencies can cause anemia. In many chronic diseases, the bone marrow produces less than the normal number of red cells each day. These are just a few of more common factors that can contribute to anemia.