Cancer can impact hematocrit levels in multiple ways:
Bone Marrow Suppression: Certain cancers, particularly leukemia and lymphoma, can infiltrate the bone marrow and disrupt the production of RBCs, leading to low hematocrit levels. Internal Bleeding: Tumors in organs such as the gastrointestinal tract or lungs can cause internal bleeding, resulting in decreased hematocrit. Malnutrition: Cancer and its treatments can lead to poor nutrition, which in turn can affect RBC production and lower hematocrit levels. Treatments: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can damage the bone marrow, reducing its ability to produce RBCs and causing a drop in hematocrit.
