One in Five Adults Over 50 Suffer from This Hidden Condition Often Missed by Doctors – It Can Be Fatal If Untreated, But a Simple Fix Exists

London/New York – A silent health crisis is affecting millions of middle-aged and older adults worldwide, with experts warning that vitamin B12 deficiency is being widely underdiagnosed, particularly in people over 50. According to reports, as many as one in five adults in this age group may have insufficient levels of this essential nutrient, which plays a critical role in red blood cell production, DNA repair, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Symptoms often develop gradually and can be vague, leading GPs and doctors to miss them. Common signs include extreme fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, wobbly legs or balance issues, pale skin, a sore or swollen tongue, tingling in hands and feet, irritability, and sleep problems. If left untreated, severe deficiency can lead to irreversible nerve damage, heart problems, cognitive decline resembling dementia, vision loss, and in extreme cases, even death.
The condition is dubbed “hidden hunger” by some experts. Risk factors include aging (stomach acid production decreases, impairing absorption), vegetarian or vegan diets, consumption of ultra-processed foods, certain medications (like metformin for diabetes or proton pump inhibitors for acid reflux), and autoimmune conditions such as pernicious anemia.
Diagnosis can be tricky because standard blood tests may only detect about 50% of cases accurately. Many patients, like Zita Wells from the UK, only realize something is wrong after a sudden episode, such as feeling weak and collapsing while shopping. Blood tests later confirmed severe B12 deficiency.
The good news? Treatment is often simple and effective. Over-the-counter B12 supplements work well for many, especially diet-related cases. For those with absorption issues, regular B12 injections can quickly restore levels and reverse symptoms. Awareness and proactive screening for at-risk individuals are key.
Health experts urge adults over 50, especially those with symptoms or risk factors, to consult their doctors for testing. Early intervention can prevent serious complications and dramatically improve quality of life.
This issue highlights the need for better nutrition awareness in aging populations globally, as similar trends are reported in other developed countries.