Anaemia is when your body does not have enough red blood cells to supply oxygen throughout the body. In a routine blood test, anaemia is characterized by the presence of fewer red blood cells. Haemoglobin is a protein in the red blood cells that actually transports oxygen to the organs vital for health.

During the routine test, a low haemoglobin level indicates anaemia. Having low oxygen affects the functioning of other organs that rely on oxygen for their work, such as your heart. Women and young children are more likely to have anaemia than men do.