§ Mr. HavardTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what the basis is of his policy not to treat cancer patients with anaemia-related fatigue until their haemoglobin drops to 7 g/dl equates. [86267]
§ Ms BlearsThe Department does not operate the policy referred to. It is for individual clinicians to decide, in consultation with their patients, the most suitable treatment for their condition or for any side effects, such as anaemia-related fatigue, resulting from treatment.
§ Mr. HavardTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures he is taking to ensure that patients with chronic anaemia should not be treated with red cell transfusions where effective alternatives exist. [86269]
§ Ms BlearsThe publication of guidelines from the British Committee for Standards in Haematology in 2001 provides specific advice to clinicians. The type of treatment offered to chronic anaemia patients is a matter of individual clinical judgment and discussion with the patient concerned. The Department encourages the production of local protocols, which use existing guidance produced from a sound evidence base and clinical consensus.