Inclusion Criteria

DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS:

- Histologically confirmed malignant solid tumor

- No hematologic malignancy

- Hemoglobin < 10.5 g/dL (anemic)

- Receiving palliative care only

PATIENT CHARACTERISTICS:

- Life expectancy > 6 months

- Negative pregnancy test

- Fertile patients must use effective contraception

- No chronic anemia requiring treatment (e.g., thalassemia or sickle cell disease)

- No uncontrolled hypertension

- No allergy to any drugs or components used in the study

- Not a prisoner or under guardianship or trusteeship

- No mental disability that impairs a clear understanding of the study requirements

PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY:

- See Disease Characteristics

- More than 2 months since prior specific anticancer therapy (e.g., chemotherapy,
hormonal therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy)

- More than 1 month since prior and no concurrent participation in another clinical
trial