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RICHARD K. SPENCE, M.d., MHA, FACS, is Senior Vice President for Clinical Affairs, Infonalé, 1828 Cardinal Lake Drive, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 (rkspence{at}ix.netcom.com).

Purpose. Studies indicate that the prevalence of anemia in a number of patient populations is more common than originally thought, and that more patients go untreated. Current trends in the prevalence of anemia and the consequences of untreated anemia are described. Summary. Untreated anemia is linked as an independent risk factor to increased mortality, morbidity, decreased efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy in cancer treatment, and lengthened hospital or intensive care unit length of stay. Anemia is also associated with increased mortality in patients with congestive heart failure or left ventricular dysfunction. Conclusion. Anemia is prevalent in the oncology and critical care populations, yet is a neglected diagnosis. It is well established that anemia has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality, and can adversely impact therapy effectiveness. Effective treatment of anemia should be based on an understanding of the patient’s physiological response to anemia and achieving optimal oxygenation levels while minimizing risks and complications common to the critical care patient. Index terms: Anemia; Critical illness; Diagnosis; Economics; Hospitals; Mortality; Neoplasms