Is it normal for blacks to have low white blood cell count?

Up to 50\% of individuals of African ancestry have baseline WBC counts lower than 4.0 × 109/L and absolute neutrophil counts (ANCs) lower than 2.5 × 109/L. The lower baseline ANC in these otherwise healthy individuals has been labeled ethnic neutropenia; however, these lower counts are likely a normal variant.

What does low white blood cells tell you?

A low white blood cell count in adults is less than 4,000 cells per microliter of blood. A low white blood cell count can be an indicator of certain conditions, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, vitamin deficiencies, or a side effect of cancer treatment.

How do you increase your WBC count?

Foods high in protein, such as lean meats and poultry, are high in zinc — a mineral that increases the production of white blood cells and T-cells, which fight infection. Other great sources of zinc are oysters, nuts, fortified cereal, and beans.

What vitamins boost white blood cells?

Vitamin C is thought to increase the production of white blood cells, which are key to fighting infections.

What can cause low white cell count?

Many diseases can cause leukopenia due to damage of the bone marrow, but low white blood cell counts can also be caused by drugs and laboratory errors. White blood cells may be destroyed during a course of radiation therapy or chemotherapy, and the count typically remains low until treatment has been completed.

What causes a low white blood count?

A low WBC count is often linked to problems with the bone marrow and the inability to make enough white blood cells. Autoimmune diseases that attack your white blood cells can also lead to a low WBC count. Several different prescribed drugs, including chemotherapy, are known to decrease WBC production or destroy WBCs.

How serious is low white blood count?

As part of your immune system, white blood cells fight disease and are important for the body’s defense against infections. A chronically low white blood cell count (leukopenia) can make you vulnerable to bacterial infections and could signal a serious health problem.