Researchers from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden published a study in BMJ Journals suggesting that a blood disorder such as new-onset anemia may be an indicator of cancer or mortality. The analysis, which included data from more than 380,000 adults, shows an elevated risk of cancer diagnosis in the first months after the detection of anemia.
Study results indicate that 6.2% of men and 2.8% of women diagnosed with new-onset anemia were diagnosed with cancer within three months. These findings underscore the need for extensive follow-up to identify possible malignancies.
The research indicated that certain types of anemia were individually linked to cancer progression and mortality.
Types of anemia and impact on mortality
The study details that certain types of anemia, such as microcytic and macrocytic, are correlated with different mortality rates.
Microcytic anemia, in which red blood cells are smaller than usual, is associated with an increased risk of cancer, particularly digestive diseases. While macrocytic anemia, a type of anemia in which red blood cells are larger than normal, is more related to normal mortality.
“Our findings suggest that anemia could be a sign of an underlying disease, rather than a condition in itself,” Elinor Nemlander, lead author of the study, said in a statement.
Furthermore, in statements to Fox Information Digitalthe researcher noted that measures such as red blood cell size are already “routinely available” in primary care, and that the study highlights how this existing data can be used to identify early risks.
Importance of early detection
Leading researcher Elinor Nemlander emphasizes that routine testing data can help identify early risks. However, it also emphasizes the importance of structured follow-up, even when cancer is not initially detected.
This strategy could lead to improved long-term outcomes for anemic patients.
How anemia is related to other disorders
Anemia is usually more of a sign of an underlying disease than an isolated problem. It is related to non-cancerous disorders such as chronic inflammatory diseases, kidney failure, autoimmune diseases, long-term infections, intestinal diseases that affect nutrient absorption, and deficiencies of iron, folate, or vitamin B12.
The relationship can occur in several ways. In some people, depraved disease lowers the production of red blood cells or impairs their function; in others, there is blood loss or poor absorption of nutrients; and in others, chronic inflammation blocks the normal use of iron.
Among the causes or associations not related to cancer, the following stand out:
- Chronic kidney disease, because the production of signals that stimulate the formation of red blood cells decreases.
- Autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis.
- Long-term infections, such as HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B or C, osteomyelitis, and bacterial endocarditis.
- Digestive problems, such as celiac or Crohn’s disease, that make it difficult to absorb iron and vitamins.
- Thyroid disorders and non-malignant bone marrow diseases, which may also present with anemia.
Anemia can worsen fatigue, shortness of breath, and weakness, and if severe, can affect the functioning of several organs. Therefore, when it appears, it usually requires looking for the underlying cause instead of treating only iron or hemoglobin.
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