Why anemia in cancer

Even if your anemia does not conflict or interfere with cancer treatment, getting it under control will help replenish your energy levels and improve your overall quality of life. Cancer and anemia are common health issues often thought of separately.

However, a significant number of people diagnosed with cancer — about 30 to 90 percent — have anemia as well. Some of the leading cancer care providers are here at New Hope Unlimited.

Our caring community will be alongside you every step of the way: from your initial consultation through treatment and survivorship. Write to us or call us at to schedule a consultation and know more about your options. Click here for our blog Disclaimer. Welcome to New Hope Unlimited. Search for:. Call Today Menu Skip to content. Personalized Cancer Treatment Options. Erythropoietin for Combating Cancer-Related Anemia Doctors may give erythropoiesis-stimulating agents ESAs to those who develop anemia due to chemotherapy in an attempt to boost red blood cell production and minimize the need for blood transfusions.

Anemia in cancer patients is usually treated based on the cause. Sometimes, treatment of anemia delays cancer treatment until your red blood cells recover. There are 2 main goals in treating anemia:. Your doctor will look at your test results, symptoms, how long you've been having the symptoms, the cancer type, cancer treatment, and other factors. Talk to your cancer care team about what treatment is right for you. As with any medical problem, the expected benefits of treatment should always outweigh the possible risks.

If your iron levels are low, your doctor may supplement them with iron pills or iron given through your veins iron infusion. Iron infusions carry a risk of allergic reaction. Your doctor will discuss with you what form of iron would be best for your situation.

Your doctor may also ask you to try to eat more iron-rich foods. There are two types of iron in food: heme and non-heme. Heme iron is found in animal products. Heme iron is more easily absorbed by the body than non-heme iron. Examples of foods that contain heme iron are:. Non-heme iron is found in plant-based foods. Examples of foods that contain high amounts of non-heme iron include:. Non-heme iron is best absorbed by the body when eaten at the same time as fruits and vegetables high in Vitamin C.

They can be broadly defined as follows:. It is this latter type that we commonly refer to as iron deficiency anemia. Iron deficiency anemia can be an early warning sign of cancer and one that is often missed by healthcare providers. Iron deficiency anemia can be caused by everyday life situations such as menstruation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding which is why iron supplements are often prescribed to women.

Children can also be at risk since many begin life with low iron and don't get enough in their diets to meet their daily needs. Where it is uncommon is in healthy men and postmenopausal women, suggesting a more serious underlying cause.

Cancer is one of the things we typically look for, particularly in people over 50 who are at greater risk of the disease. While anemia is closely linked to cancer, the mechanism for its development can vary by the type of malignancy. With colon cancer, it works somewhat differently. Bleeding is considered the primary cause of anemia when the colon is involved. This is because the tumor releases certain chemicals that stimulate the formation of new blood vessels. As the tumor grows, the vessel bursts, leading to the loss of red blood cells.

The bleeding, in turn, can give rise to an iron deficiency. Even if there are ample supplies of iron in the blood, the surrounding inflammation can cause iron molecules to become "trapped" in immune cells. As the inflammation persists, the availability of iron becomes less and less, resulting in the development of iron deficiency anemia. This is especially true if experiencing symptoms of cancer.

In term of colon cancer specifically, the most common symptoms can include:. If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, call your healthcare provider and request the necessary tests to better pinpoint the cause.

Limiting processed foods and red meats can help ward off cancer risk. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to your entire body. When dying red blood cells outpace the bone…. Experts say new blood tests may dramatically change cancer diagnostics, although more research is needed.

The nonprofit, cloud-based network provides games, movies, STEM education, and other programs for children who are isolated with serious illnesses. Scientists are studying immunotherapies and other cancer treatments to develop effective therapies with less intense side effects. When you know someone who has cancer, it's hard to know what to say.

Hickeys are small bruises that can occur when someone bites or sucks on the skin. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Understanding the Connection Between Anemia and Cancer. Why is anemia linked to cancer? Signs of anemia, cancer, and both together. Causes of anemia with cancer. Diagnosing anemia with cancer. Treating anemia and cancer. Outlook for anemia and cancer. The takeaway. Understanding Iron Supplements for Anemia. Read this next.