What condition is characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells?

Anemia is characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells (RBCs) or hemoglobin in the blood. This condition leads to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity, which can result in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and pallor. There are various types of anemia, each with different underlying causes, including nutritional deficiencies (like iron, vitamin B12, or folate), bone marrow disorders, chronic diseases, and genetic disorders.

In contrast, leukemia involves the uncontrolled proliferation of white blood cells and significantly affects the blood's ability to function properly but is not primarily defined by a deficiency of red blood cells. Hemophilia is a genetic disorder that affects blood clotting due to a deficiency in clotting factors, while thrombocytopenia refers to a low platelet count, impacting the blood's ability to clot and not the number of red blood cells. Therefore, the identification of anemia as a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells aligns accurately with the definition and understanding of the condition.