Epoetin Beta in Treating Fatigue and Anemia in Patients Receiving Palliative Care for Malignant Solid Tumors

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