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Anemia, a prevalent blood disorder, might significantly increase the likelihood of developing cancer. This claim comes from a recent study in Sweden that examined whether new-onset anemia is an early indicator of cancer or mortality from other causes.
Published in the BMJ journal, the study analyzed registry data from over 380,000 adults in Sweden. Half of these individuals had newly developed anemia, while the other half, matched for age and gender, did not.
Participants, all over 18 years old, were cancer-free at the outset of the study.
Results indicated that those with idiopathic anemia—anemia appearing during a specific timeframe—were more likely to be diagnosed with cancer, particularly within the first three months. This pattern was noted in 6.2% of men and 2.8% of women.
Moreover, individuals with anemia had a higher risk of death during an 18-month follow-up period.
The research highlighted that specific types of anemia were independently linked to disease progression and mortality. Microcytic anemia, characterized by smaller than normal red blood cells, showed a strong association with cancers, especially those affecting the digestive system and blood. In contrast, macrocytic anemia, where red blood cells are larger than usual, was more linked to overall mortality rather than cancer itself.
Researchers concluded that new-onset anemia serves as a “strong and persistent risk marker” for cancer incidence and all-cause mortality.
Elinor Nemlander, the lead author of the study from the Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Sociology at Karolinska Institutet, expressed in a press release that the risk of cancer and death was notably highest in the initial months after anemia was detected. However, the elevated risk persisted in subsequent follow-ups. She mentioned that this may indicate anemia is a symptom of an underlying health issue rather than a standalone condition.
In an interview, Nemlander emphasized that routine measures such as assessing red blood cell size can be utilized in primary care to identify early risks. Nonetheless, consistent follow-ups are necessary, as the risk remains even if cancer isn’t initially diagnosed.
While the study observed significant associations, it does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between anemia and cancer or death. Furthermore, it did not assess all potential causes of anemia, including factors like alcohol consumption, malnutrition, chronic liver diseases, inflammatory conditions, and gynecological blood loss. Variances in individuals being tested, their underlying health conditions, and how anemia is evaluated in various clinical contexts may have also influenced some findings.
