Abstract

Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are approved worldwide for treating anemia in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. ESA-safety issues include thromboembolic events and there have been concerns about a possible induction of disease progression or increased mortality in cancer patients treated with these agents. This chapter discusses available evidence regarding this question. Clinical data and preclinical studies provide no convincing evidence that ESAs increase any risk related to the patient’s cancer when used within label. Assessment and definition of disease progression vary across studies, and preclinical work has often been conducted with inadequate methodology.