Iron Deficiency: Hidden Consequences Across the Lifespan – with Dr Amy Walker Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, yet its impact is often underestimated. It affects women and children, more frequently than men, and its consequences span from increased risk of neurodevelopmental conditions, through hormonal and immune imbalances, to osteoporosis and cognitive decline. Genetic variants in the TMPRSS6 gene, which regulates hepcidin and iron absorption, can significantly increase susceptibility to deficiency and reduce response to oral iron. This talk highlights why proactive screening — particularly in women and children — is essential, and why nutrigenetic testing is a critical component of a functional medicine approach to prevention and early intervention.