Clapper, Patti, Schweizer and Mason

Mesothelioma is an incurable cancer caused by exposure to asbestos that begins in the lining of the lungs, heart or abdomen.  Standard treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, can lead to the development of anemia and can be one cause of fatigue for mesothelioma patients. 

Anemia is caused when the levels of hemoglobin or number of red blood cells in the blood becomes too low.  Red blood cells are what carry oxygen to the body tissues.  When levels fall too low, many symptoms can occur, such as:

• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty breathing during exertion
• Fatigue, low energy, exhaustion
• Weakness
• Heart palpitations

Anemia commonly occurs as a result of chemotherapy and radiation.  Preventing and managing anemia is essential when going through mesothelioma treatments.   If possible, eating foods that are rich in iron and other nutrients as well as taking supplements can prevent anemia.  Drug therapy using epoetin and darbepoetin can be helpful too, but caution must be used with these as they can cause more threatening side effects.  In some cases, blood transfusions of red blood cells are necessary to relieve anemia. 

Anemia can have not only negative physical symptoms, but also effect cognitive and social- emotional functioning.  If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and are undergoing treatments or participating in a clinical trial, make sure your healthcare team takes all precautions to prevent and treat anemia in order to maintain the best quality of life while undergoing therapy.