Consensus on the clinical diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cancer related anemia in China (2023 edition)

Abstract

Cancer related anemia (CRA) is a common side effect in patients with tumors, the incidence of which is related to tumor type, treatment regimen, the duration of chemotherapy, etc. The pathogenesis of CRA has not been fully defined. CRA may lead to chemotherapy dose reduction or may even delay chemotherapy. Patients with CRA require red blood cell transfusion, thus increasing the treatment cost, reducing the efficiency of chemotherapy and the patient's quality of life, and shortening the survival time. The main treatments of CRA include red blood cell transfusion, iron supplements, erythropoietin, and so on. Based on recent literature and clinical studies, the expert committee of the China Anti-Cancer Association drew up the consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of anemia related to tumor in China (2023 edition). The 2023 consensus incorporates the latest evidence-based medicine evidence and Traditional Chinese Medicine related content and aims to provide more reliable diagnosis and treatment plans for Chinese oncologists to help improve CRA and the quality of life in patients with cancer.