Rutgers Nutrition Practice Test

Hemochromatosis is recognized as the most common cause of iron overload in the blood due to its genetic nature that leads to excessive absorption of iron from the diet. This condition is often hereditary, resulting from mutations in the HFE gene, which regulate iron homeostasis in the body. As a consequence, individuals with hemochromatosis absorb significantly more iron than needed, leading to an accumulation of iron in various organs, including the liver, heart, and pancreas.

This excess iron can result in serious complications, such as liver disease, diabetes, and heart problems, if not properly managed. Monitoring and managing iron levels is critical for individuals with this condition, often involving therapeutic phlebotomy or chelation therapy to prevent damage from iron overload. In contrast, the other conditions listed don't typically contribute to iron overload in the same manner, often being associated with either normal or insufficient levels of iron in the body.