Nutritional anemia is believed to be the most widespread nutritional disorder in the world. While it generally affects developing countries, developed countries are also affected to an extent sufficient to justify the implementation of preventive measures at a national level. This report focuses on iron and folate deficiencies, which are by far the most frequent causes of nutritional anemias. The discussion includes descriptions of iron and folate metabolism, consequences of deficiencies, methods of evaluation of iron and folate status, and prevention measures. A technical note on recommended iron intake takes into account bioavailability in dietary regimens around the world. The report also includes a statement released by the International Vitamin A Consultative Group on the role of vitamin A in child health and survival and a report of studies of iron absorption from meals including maize flour products that are eaten by Venezuelan adults. Of all human nutritional requirements, the requirement for iron raises the greatest practical problems. But thanks to increased epidemiological understanding, improved preventive measures can be implemented and their impact evaluated with increased accuracy. A chart provides basic and preventive estimated dietary iron requirements by sex, age, reproductive status of women, and for diets with low, moderate, and high bioavailability. (RH)