Who Is at Risk for Aplastic Anemia?

Aplastic anemia is a rare but serious blood disorder. People of all ages can develop aplastic anemia. However, it's most common in adolescents, young adults, and the elderly. Men and women are equally likely to have it.

The disorder is two to three times more common in Asian countries.

Your risk of aplastic anemia is higher if you:

  • Have been exposed to toxins
  • Have taken certain medicines or had radiation or chemotherapy (treatments for cancer)
  • Have certain infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, or inherited conditions

 

Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health.