What is anemia in the context of cancer?

Anemia in the context of cancer refers to a deficiency of red blood cells. This condition occurs when there are not enough red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the body's tissues, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. In cancer patients, anemia may be caused by several factors, including the cancer itself, treatment effects like chemotherapy or radiation, and nutritional deficiencies. Tumors can disrupt the production of red blood cells or lead to chronic inflammation, which can further contribute to this condition. Understanding anemia is critical for oncology nursing practice because it affects a patient’s quality of life and may require interventions such as blood transfusions, iron supplementation, or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents to manage effectively.