Predicting iron and folate deficiency anaemias from standard blood testing: the mechanism and implications for clinical medicine and public health in developing countries.

Background: Developing countries have high prevalence of diseases, but facilities to diagnose and treat them are limited. We must use available resources in ways not needed where there are sophisticated equipment and trained staff. Anaemia is common; iron deficiency affects health and productivity; folate deficiency in pregnant women causes foetal abnormalities.