Treatment patterns and outcomes in the management of anaemia in cancer patients in Europe: findings from the Anaemia Cancer Treatment (ACT) study.

To examine anaemia management in cancer patients treated with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) in Europe.Retrospective pharmacoepidemiologic study of 2192 patients from 307 centres. Minimum of 3 visits over 8-10 weeks with ESA treatment initiated at visit 1.Most patients were treated per guidelines, except for low iron supplementation rates. Mean Hb rose from 9.54+/-0.95 g/dl to 10.88+/-1.49 g/dl at visit 3, without concomitant rise in WHO/ECOG score. Response rates were 65.0% (Hb increase (upward arrow) > or = 1 g/dl); 54.3% (Hb increase (upward arrow) > or = 1 g/dl in 8 weeks); 38.9% (haematopoietic response); 33.7% (Hb increase (upward arrow) > or = 2 g/dl) and 18.8% (Hb between 12.0 and 12.9 g/dl)Treatment patterns were guideline congruent, except for (intravenous) iron supplementation. Hb increased by 1.34 g/dl. A net erythropoiesis boost of Hb > or =1 g/dl is attainable in two-thirds of patients and should be condensed to 8 weeks on an individual patient basis. Anaemia management in Europe has improved significantly. The general effectiveness and relative safety of judicious ESA treatment are evident.

Duke Scholars

Author Tara Albrecht School of Nursing