ABSTRACT
Anemia (which literally means without blood) can be dened as a condition whereby the total mass of erythrocytes present in a given individual is reduced to a level that is inadequate to sustain the normal, active life of the subject. Since the primary function of the erythrocyte is to transport and dispense oxygen, anemia results in a deciency in the oxygenation of the body tissues. It is consequently appreciated why an anemic individual is less likely to conduct the activities of daily living with the same vigor as a healthy counterpart (e.g., to search for food, to compete for mates, or to care for infants). The oxygen-poor environment of the tissues of an anemic monkey can also be anticipated to reduce its capacity to combat infections and repair damaged tissues.
