Iron Deficiency Anemia & Cancer
IDA can develop in people living with solid tumors and hematological malignancies
Cancer can co-exist with many different anemias, including IDA. Anemia can develop for several reasons, including the cancer itself, chemotherapy, blood loss, lack of certain hormones in people with kidney disease and marrow involvement with tumors, among others.
A high rate of iron deficiency (functional and absolute) has been found in people living with pancreatic cancer, followed by colorectal and lung cancer.
Throughout cancer treatment, it’s important to monitor for any symptoms that may be associated with IDA, including fatigue, headaches, dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath or brittle nails. Your symptoms could be related to your cancer, your treatment, your IDA or something else, so it is always important to discuss how you are feeling with your doctor.
IDA may make living with cancer even more difficult. That's why you should speak with your doctor about testing your iron levels.
IDA may make living with cancer even more difficult. That's why you should speak with your doctor about testing your iron levels.
The fight against cancer can be overwhelming, but IDA can be diagnosed and managed. If you’re living with cancer, it's important to speak with your doctor about getting your iron levels checked.
Diagnosing & Treating IDA