Epoetin alfa reduces anemia in breast cancer patients with no negative impact on survival

(Journal of the National Cancer Institute) In patients with high-risk breast cancer, addition of the erythropoiesis-stimulating agent epoetin alfa to the chemotherapy regimen may help avoid the decrease in hemoglobin levels and resulting anemia often seen in these patients and does not negatively affect relapse-free or overall survival. However, it can increase the risk of thrombotic events, according to a study published July 17 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
Source: EurekAlert! - Cancer - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news