Keywords: Chronic disease management, geriatric patient monitoring, iron deficiency anemia, rural healthcare

Background:

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common condition in elderly patients and often progresses silently. In rural healthcare settings, limited access to specialized services makes early detection in primary care even more crucial. Routine follow-ups for chronic diseases provide valuable opportunities to identify such conditions before complications arise.

Aim of the case report:

This report aims to highlight the importance of early detection through systematic chronic disease monitoring, especially in rural primary care. It presents a case of severe anemia diagnosed during a routine visit and underlines the proactive role of primary care physicians in underserved settings.

Case report:

A 75-year-old female patient living in a rural area was invited to her local family health center for routine chronic disease follow-up. Although she had no specific complaints, detailed questioning revealed persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, and shortness of breath on exertion.

Physical examination showed pallor of the skin and mucous membranes. Her blood pressure was 90/70 mmHg. Laboratory findings revealed Hb: 6.5 g/dL, Hct: 22%, and Fe: 20 µg/dL, confirming severe IDA. Further tests, including ferritin and TIBC, were ordered to explore underlying causes.

Due to the severity of the findings, the patient was referred for further evaluation and treatment. A follow-up plan including nutritional advice, lab monitoring, and regular check-ups was initiated after discharge.

Conclusions:

This case illustrates how routine chronic disease management in rural primary care can lead to early diagnosis of life-threatening conditions. Strengthening systematic follow-up in these areas can reduce health disparities, improve patient outcomes, and empower primary care as a frontline defense in rural healthcare systems.