A simple and reliable 10 minute finger prick blood spot test that shows if you have iron deficiency anaemia Iron deficiency anaemia is a common, major, and global public health problem. Women of childbearing age and pregnant women are at particular risk. Common symptoms of iron deficiency can include headaches, tiredness, lack of energy, palpitations, and hair loss. Measurement of specific biomarkers in the blood, such as ferritin, are a simple and more reliable indicator of iron deficiency anaemia compared to a full blood count. Knowing that you have a low iron level can help you seek advice from your pharmacist and doctor to help you reduce the risks of long-term diseases associated with iron deficiency anaemia. Accuracy Comparison of the SELFCheck Iron Level Test with reference laboratory methods shows an overall agreement of at least 98% (95% Confidence Interval 93-100%). Although this test is very reliable, doctors are aware that all medical tests whether used in the laboratory or at home may give a small number of false positive or false negative results. IMPORTANT: This test is not suitable if you have haemochromatosis. How does the SELFCheck Iron Level Test work? Ferritin is a protein and is the main way in which iron is stored in your cells. Only one line visible in your test result (next to the C mark) means that the ferritin concentration in your blood is lower than 20ng/mL and you could have an iron deficiencyThe test kit contains; 1 test device, 1 plastic pipette and 1 desiccant pouch 1 small bottle containing 1ml of diluent 2 sterile lancets to obtain a blood sample 1 instruction leaflet You will also require a watch or clock with a second hand or a timer, and a clean tissue.Please read instruction included in the box prior to conducting the test The test can be used at any time of the day but must not be performed if you are ill, suffering from acute inflammation or a spleen or liver injury. The result should be read within 10 minutes after adding the diluent. The result is reliable for up to 15 minutes.
