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

The condition characterized by a deficiency of healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin is anemia. Anemia occurs when the body does not have enough red blood cells or if the hemoglobin in those cells is not functioning properly. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body, so when there is a deficiency, it can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath due to insufficient oxygen supply to tissues.

In contrast, leukemia involves the production of abnormal white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections, while thrombocytopenia refers to a reduced platelet count, impacting blood clotting. Polycythemia is a condition where there is an excess of red blood cells, which is the opposite of anemia. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why anemia is the correct answer in the context of red blood cell and hemoglobin deficiencies.