HC Deb 18 December 2003 vol 415 c1118W
Mr. Havard

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many patients received blood transfusions for chemotherapy-induced anaemia in each year since 1997. [144494]

Miss Melanie Johnson

Information on the number of patients who receive blood transfusions for chemotherapy induced anaemia is not collected centrally.

Mr. Havard

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps are being taken to inform cancer patients about the alternatives to blood transfusion for chemotherapy-induced anaemia. [144495]

Miss Melanie Johnson

There is a national patient information leaflet produced by the National Blood Service for patients who may receive a blood transfusion. The leaflet includes a section on alternatives to blood transfusions—although this is directed principally at surgical rather than cancer patients. When the leaflet is next reviewed consideration will be given to providing more information on other possible alternatives to blood transfusion. In addition, guidance on information provision for cancer patients will be included in the supportive and palliative care guidance currently being produced by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence for publication next year.

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