Screening for iron deficiency with or without anemia requires a complete blood count (CBC) as well as measuring serum ferritin concentration. The ferritin assay is expensive, and there are certain inflammatory processes, which may artificially raise the ferritin level as it becomes an acute phase reactant.

The following recommendations should be adhered to in competitive athletes while in training:

Dietary counseling to insure adequate intake of iron in the athletes diet.

Inquiring thoroughly about the athlete's diet and past history of ulcers, excessive menstrual bleeding, or anemia.

In all athletes in whom there has been substantial, inexplicable decrease in aerobic performance, a CBC and serum ferritin should be drawn.

Male athletes who do not have a history of ulcer disease, anemia, or a decrease in performance do not require routine blood tests.