Is low hemoglobin caused by cancer

Low hemoglobin levels are generally not associated with cancer and may be caused by iron deficiency anemia, chronic inflammation, malnutrition, physiological changes during pregnancy, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Cancer related anemia is usually accompanied by typical symptoms such as sudden weight loss and persistent fever.

1. Iron deficiency anemia:

Iron deficiency is a common cause of low hemoglobin, which is more common in picky eaters or women with heavy menstrual periods. Lack of raw materials for red blood cell production can lead to symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue, which can be diagnosed through serum ferritin testing. Treatment requires the supplementation of iron supplements such as ferrous sulfate and ferrous succinate, while increasing the intake of iron rich foods such as animal liver and spinach.

2. Effects of chronic diseases:

Long term inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis and chronic kidney disease can inhibit bone marrow hematopoietic function. This type of anemia is characterized by normal serum iron but decreased iron utilization, and the primary disease needs to be controlled. Erythropoietin is suitable for renal anemia, and infectious diseases should be given priority to anti-inflammatory treatment.

3. Insufficient nutrient intake:

Long term vegetarianism or dieting may lead to vitamin B12 and folate deficiency, causing megaloblastic anemia. Tongue inflammation and numbness in the hands and feet are typical symptoms, which need to be identified through bone marrow puncture. The treatment requires intramuscular injection of vitamin B12 and oral folic acid tablets, and daily intake of eggs, milk, and dark green vegetables.

4. Anemia during pregnancy:

Increased blood volume in pregnant women can lead to physiological dilution of hemoglobin, and a level below 110g/L in the middle and late stages of pregnancy is a normal phenomenon. However, severe anemia may cause fetal hypoxia. It is recommended to regularly monitor blood routine during pregnancy and supplement pregnancy specific iron supplements such as polysaccharide iron complexes appropriately.

5. Hidden bleeding:

Chronic bleeding such as gastric ulcers and hemorrhoids can continuously deplete iron reserves. Men with unexplained anemia should be alert to digestive tract tumors. Fecal occult blood test can provide preliminary screening, while gastroscopy and colonoscopy can identify bleeding points. Treatment requires hemostasis and endoscopic surgery, while malignant tumors require a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

It is recommended to complete tumor markers, whole-body CT and other examinations to exclude malignant lesions when hemoglobin is below 90g/L. Daily consumption of blood nourishing ingredients such as red dates and red beans, combined with aerobic exercise such as jogging, can improve hematopoietic function. If anemia continues to worsen or symptoms such as hemoptysis and bone pain occur, immediate medical attention should be sought from a hematology department. Hematological diseases such as myelodysplastic syndrome and leukemia can also lead to an abnormal decrease in hemoglobin.