Cause: Vitamin Deficiencies
Neutropenia can be caused by deficiencies in vitamins, particularly Vitamin B-12. This essential vitamin plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy blood and can be obtained from fish and poultry. Individuals who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet are more prone to B-12 deficiencies. If you are on one of these diets, it is advisable to incorporate a B-12 supplement into your daily regimen.
Cause: Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy, a commonly used treatment for cancer patients, is the leading cause of neutropenia. The main goal of chemotherapy is to eliminate rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells. Unfortunately, this treatment can also affect healthy cells, such as those found in hair and bone marrow. As the body combats cancer and chemotherapy weakens the functioning of the bone marrow, neutropenia may occur. It is estimated that about half of all individuals undergoing chemotherapy will experience neutropenia.