The Biomarkers Reflecting Inflammation and Nutritional Determinants of Anemia (BRINDA) project set out to improve the interpretation of iron and vitamin A biomarker results and our understanding of the main risk factors for anemia. The BRINDA project published findings that have significant implications for anemia programming, especially programs aimed at addressing micronutrient deficiencies. The findings indicate the importance of applying adjustments for inflammation to iron and vitamin A biomarkers to correctly interpret the prevalence of these deficiencies and their association with anemia. The BRINDA project also identified key risk factors for anemia across several countries. This brief summarize these findings and explains their relevance for anemia programming.