Sex Differences in Kidney Replacement Therapy Initiation and Maintenance.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: More men than women undergo kidney replacement therapy (KRT) despite a larger number of women being affected by CKD. The aim of this multinational European study was to explore whether there might be historic and geographic trends in sex-specific incidence and prevalence of various KRT modalities. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS: We assessed sex-specific differences in KRT incidence and prevalence using data from nine countries reporting to the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association (ERA-EDTA) Registry for at least 40 years, during the period 1965-2015. Sex distribution data were compared with the European general population (Eurostat). Statistical methodology included basic descriptive statistics, incidence and prevalence calculations per million population (pmp), as well as their male-to-female ratios. Analyses were stratified by age group and diabetic status. RESULTS: We analyzed data from 230,378 patients receiving KRT (38% women). For all KRT modalities, the incidence and prevalence rates were consistently higher in men than women. For example, the KRT incidence increased from 8 pmp in 1965-1974 to 98 pmp in 2005-2015 in women, whereas it rose from 12 to 173 pmp in men during the same period. Male-to-female ratios, calculated for incident and prevalent KRT patients, increased with age (range 1.2-2.4), showing consistency over decades and for individual countries, despite marked changes in primary kidney disease (diabetes more prevalent than glomerulonephritis in recent decades). The proportion of kidney transplants decreased less with age in incident and prevalent men compared with women on KRT. Stratified analysis of patients who were diabetic versus nondiabetic revealed that the male-to-female ratio was markedly higher for kidney transplantation in patients with diabetes. CONCLUSIONS: Since the beginning of KRT programs reporting to the ERA-EDTA Registry since the 1960s, fewer women than men have received KRT. The relative difference between men and women initiating and undergoing KRT has remained consistent over the last five decades and in all studied countries.

The epidemiology of renal replacement therapy in two different parts of the world: the Latin American Dialysis and Transplant Registry versus the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association Registry

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To compare the epidemiology of renal replacement therapy (RRT) for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in Latin America and Europe, as well as to study differences in macroeconomic indicators, demographic and clinical patient characteristics, mortality rates, and causes of death between these two populations. Methods. We used data from 20 Latin American and 49 European national and subnational renal registries that had provided data to the Latin American Dialysis and Renal Transplant Registry (RLADTR) and the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association (ERA-EDTA) Registry, respectively. The incidence and prevalence of RRT in 2013 were calculated per million population (pmp), overall and by subcategories of age, sex, primary renal disease, and treatment modality. The correlation between gross domestic product and the prevalence of RRT was analyzed using linear regression. Trends in the prevalence of RRT between 2004 and 2013 were assessed using Joinpoint regression analysis. Results. In 2013, the overall incidence at day 91 after the onset of RRT was 181 pmp for Latin American countries and 130 pmp for European countries. The overall prevalence was 660 pmp for Latin America and 782 pmp for Europe. In the Latin American countries, the annual increase in the prevalence averaged 4.0% (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.5%-5.6%) from 2004 to 2013, while the European countries showed an average annual increase of 2.2% (95% CI: 2.0%-2.4%) for the same time period. The crude mortality rate was higher in Latin America than in Europe (112 versus 100 deaths per 1 000 patient-years), and cardiovascular disease was the main cause of death in both of those regions. Conclusions. There are considerable differences between Latin America and Europe in the epidemiology of RRT for ESRD. Further research is needed to explore the reasons for these differences.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Comparar los datos epidemiológicos del tratamiento sustitutivo de la función renal (TSFR) para la nefropatía terminal en América Latina y Europa, así como estudiar las diferencias en cuanto a indicadores macroeconómicos, características demográficas y clínicas de los pacientes, tasas de mortalidad y causas de defunción entre estas dos poblaciones. Métodos. Utilizamos los datos de 20 registros renales latinoamericanos y 49 europeos, a nivel nacional y subnacional, que le habían proporcionado datos al Registro Latinoamericano de Diálisis y Trasplante Renal (RLADTR) y al Registro de la Asociación Europea Renal–Asociación Europea de Diálisis y Trasplantes (ERA-EDTA, por su sigla en inglés), respectivamente. Se calculó la incidencia y la prevalencia del TSFR en el 2013 por millón de habitantes, en total y por subcategoría (edad, sexo, nefropatía primaria y modalidad de tratamiento). Se analizó la correlación entre el producto interno bruto y la prevalencia de TSFR mediante regresión lineal. Se evaluaron las tendencias en la prevalencia de TSFR entre el 2004 y el 2013 mediante un análisis de regresiones lineales segmentadas. Resultados. En el 2013, la incidencia general al día 91 después de iniciar el tratamiento sustitutivo de la función renal era de 181 por millón de habitantes en los países latinoamericanos y de 130 en los países europeos. La prevalencia general era de 660 por millón de habitantes para América Latina y de 782 para Europa. En los países latinoamericanos, el aumento anual promedio de la prevalencia fue de 4,0% (intervalo de confianza de 95% [IC]: 2,5%-5,6%) entre el 2004 y el 2013, mientras que los países europeos registraron un aumento anual promedio de 2,2% (IC de 95%: 2,0%-2,4%) durante el mismo período. La tasa bruta de mortalidad fue mayor en América Latina que en Europa (112 defunciones por 1 000 años-paciente, en comparación con 100 defunciones), y las enfermedades cardiovasculares fueron la principal causa de muerte en ambas regiones. Conclusiones. Hay considerables diferencias entre América Latina y Europa en cuanto a los datos epidemiológicos del tratamiento sustitutivo de la función renal para la nefropatía terminal. Es necesario hacer más investigaciones para explorar las razones de tales diferencias.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Comparar o perfil epidemiológico de pacientes com doença renal em estágio final (DREF) em terapia renal substitutiva (TRS) na América Latina e na Europa e examinar as diferenças nos indicadores macroeconômicos, características demográficas e clínicas, taxas de mortalidade e causas de morte entre as duas populações de pacientes. Métodos. O estudo foi baseado em informação de 20 registros latino-americanos e 49 registros nacionais e subnacionais europeus que haviam fornecido dados ao Registro Latino-Americano de Diálise e Transplante Renal (RLADTR) e Registro da Associação Europeia de Nefrologia e Associação Europeia de Diálise e Transplante (ERA-EDTA), respectivamente. A incidência e a prevalência de TRS em 2013 foram calculadas por milhão de habitantes (pmh), geral e por subcategorias de idade, sexo, doença renal primária e modalidade de tratamento. A correlação entre o produto interno bruto (PIB) e a prevalência de TRS foi analisada com o uso de regressão linear. Tendências na prevalência de TRS entre 2004 e 2013 foram analisadas com o uso de regressão linear segmentada. Resultados. Em 2013, a incidência geral ao dia 91 do início de TRS foi 181 pmh nos países latino-americanos e 130 pmh nos países europeus. Observou-se uma prevalencia geral de TRS de 660 pmh na América Latina e 782 pmh na Europa. No período 2004–2013, o aumento médio anual da prevalência foi de 4,0% (intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC 95%] 2,5%–5,6%) nos países latino-americanos, enquanto que houve um aumento médio anual de 2,2% (IC 95% 2,0%–2,4%) nos países europeus. A taxa de mortalidade bruta foi maior na América Latina que na Europa (112 versus 100 óbitos por 1.000 pacientes-anos) e doença cardiovascular foi a principal causa de morte em ambas as regiões. Conclusões. Existem diferenças consideráveis entre a América Latina e a Europa no perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes com DREF em TRS. Outras pesquisas devem ser realizadas para investigar mais a fundo estas diferenças.

Changes in co-morbidity pattern in patients starting renal replacement therapy in Europe-data from the ERA-EDTA Registry.

Background: Patients starting renal replacement therapy (RRT) for end-stage renal disease often present with one or more co-morbidities. This study explored the prevalence of co-morbidities in patients who started RRT in Europe during the period from 2005 to 2014. Methods: Using data from patients aged 20 years or older from all 11 national or regional registries providing co-morbidity data to the European Renal Association - European Dialysis and Transplant Association Registry, we examined the prevalence of the following co-morbidities: diabetes mellitus (DM) (primary renal disease and/or co-morbidity), ischaemic heart disease (IHD), congestive heart failure (CHF), peripheral vascular disease (PVD), cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and malignancy. Results: Overall, 70% of 7578 patients who initiated RRT in 2014 presented with at least one co-morbidity: 39.0% presented with DM, 25.0% with IHD, 22.3% with CHF, 17.7% with PVD, 16.4% with malignancy and 15.5% with CVD. These percentages differed substantially between countries. Co-morbidities were more common in men than in women, in older patients than in younger patients, and in patients on haemodialysis at Day 91 when compared with patients on peritoneal dialysis. Between 2005 and 2014 the prevalence of DM and malignancy increased over time, whereas the prevalence of IHD and PVD declined. Conclusions: More than two-thirds of patients initiating RRT in Europe have at least one co-morbidity. With the rising age at the start of RRT over the last decade, there have been changes in the co-morbidity pattern: the prevalence of cardiovascular co-morbidities decreased, while the prevalence of DM and malignancy increased.

The epidemiology of renal replacement therapy in two different parts of the world: the Latin American Dialysis and Transplant Registry versus the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association Registry.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the epidemiology of renal replacement therapy (RRT) for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in Latin America and Europe, as well as to study differences in macroeconomic indicators, demographic and clinical patient characteristics, mortality rates, and causes of death between these two populations. METHODS: We used data from 20 Latin American and 49 European national and subnational renal registries that had provided data to the Latin American Dialysis and Renal Transplant Registry (RLADTR) and the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association (ERA-EDTA) Registry, respectively. The incidence and prevalence of RRT in 2013 were calculated per million population (pmp), overall and by subcategories of age, sex, primary renal disease, and treatment modality. The correlation between gross domestic product and the prevalence of RRT was analyzed using linear regression. Trends in the prevalence of RRT between 2004 and 2013 were assessed using Joinpoint regression analysis. RESULTS: In 2013, the overall incidence at day 91 after the onset of RRT was 181 pmp for Latin American countries and 130 pmp for European countries. The overall prevalence was 660 pmp for Latin America and 782 pmp for Europe. In the Latin American countries, the annual increase in the prevalence averaged 4.0% (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.5%-5.6%) from 2004 to 2013, while the European countries showed an average annual increase of 2.2% (95% CI: 2.0%-2.4%) for the same time period. The crude mortality rate was higher in Latin America than in Europe (112 versus 100 deaths per 1 000 patient-years), and cardiovascular disease was the main cause of death in both of those regions. CONCLUSIONS: There are considerable differences between Latin America and Europe in the epidemiology of RRT for ESRD. Further research is needed to explore the reasons for these differences.

The epidemiology of renal replacement therapy in two different parts of the world: the Latin American Dialysis and Transplant Registry versus the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association Registry / Datos epidemiológicos del tratamiento sustitutivo de la función renal en dos partes del mundo: el Registro Latinoamericano de Diálisis y Trasplante Renal frente al Registro de la Asociación Europea de Nefrología y Asociación Europea de Diálisis y trasplante / Epidemiologia da terapia renal substitutiva em dois pontos distintos do planeta: Registro Latino-Americano de Diálise e Transplante Renal e Registro da Associação Europeia de Nefrologia e Associação Europeia de Diálise e Transplante

ABSTRACT Objective To compare the epidemiology of renal replacement therapy (RRT) for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in Latin America and Europe, as well as to study differences in macroeconomic indicators, demographic and clinical patient characteristics, mortality rates, and causes of death between these two populations. Methods We used data from 20 Latin American and 49 European national and subnational renal registries that had provided data to the Latin American Dialysis and Renal Transplant Registry (RLADTR) and the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association (ERA-EDTA) Registry, respectively. The incidence and prevalence of RRT in 2013 were calculated per million population (pmp), overall and by subcategories of age, sex, primary renal disease, and treatment modality. The correlation between gross domestic product and the prevalence of RRT was analyzed using linear regression. Trends in the prevalence of RRT between 2004 and 2013 were assessed using Joinpoint regression analysis. Results In 2013, the overall incidence at day 91 after the onset of RRT was 181 pmp for Latin American countries and 130 pmp for European countries. The overall prevalence was 660 pmp for Latin America and 782 pmp for Europe. In the Latin American countries, the annual increase in the prevalence averaged 4.0% (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.5%-5.6%) from 2004 to 2013, while the European countries showed an average annual increase of 2.2% (95% CI: 2.0%-2.4%) for the same time period. The crude mortality rate was higher in Latin America than in Europe (112 versus 100 deaths per 1 000 patient-years), and cardiovascular disease was the main cause of death in both of those regions. Conclusions There are considerable differences between Latin America and Europe in the epidemiology of RRT for ESRD. Further research is needed to explore the reasons for these differences.

RESUMEN Objetivo Comparar los datos epidemiológicos del tratamiento sustitutivo de la función renal (TSFR) para la nefropatía terminal en América Latina y Europa, así como estudiar las diferencias en cuanto a indicadores macroeconómicos, características demográficas y clínicas de los pacientes, tasas de mortalidad y causas de defunción entre estas dos poblaciones. Métodos Utilizamos los datos de 20 registros renales latinoamericanos y 49 europeos, a nivel nacional y subnacional, que le habían proporcionado datos al Registro Latinoamericano de Diálisis y Trasplante Renal (RLADTR) y al Registro de la Asociación Europea Renal-Asociación Europea de Diálisis y Trasplantes (ERA-EDTA, por su sigla en inglés), respectivamente. Se calculó la incidencia y la prevalencia del TSFR en el 2013 por millón de habitantes, en total y por subcategoría (edad, sexo, nefropatía primaria y modalidad de tratamiento). Se analizó la correlación entre el producto interno bruto y la prevalencia de TSFR mediante regresión lineal. Se evaluaron las tendencias en la prevalencia de TSFR entre el 2004 y el 2013 mediante un análisis de regresiones lineales segmentadas. Resultados En el 2013, la incidencia general al día 91 después de iniciar el tratamiento sustitutivo de la función renal era de 181 por millón de habitantes en los países latinoamericanos y de 130 en los países europeos. La prevalencia general era de 660 por millón de habitantes para América Latina y de 782 para Europa. En los países latinoamericanos, el aumento anual promedio de la prevalencia fue de 4,0% (intervalo de confianza de 95% [IC]: 2,5%-5,6%) entre el 2004 y el 2013, mientras que los países europeos registraron un aumento anual promedio de 2,2% (IC de 95%: 2,0%-2,4%) durante el mismo período. La tasa bruta de mortalidad fue mayor en América Latina que en Europa (112 defunciones por 1 000 años-paciente, en comparación con 100 defunciones), y las enfermedades cardiovasculares fueron la principal causa de muerte en ambas regiones. Conclusiones Hay considerables diferencias entre América Latina y Europa en cuanto a los datos epidemiológicos del tratamiento sustitutivo de la función renal para la nefropatía terminal. Es necesario hacer más investigaciones para explorar las razones de tales diferencias.

RESUMO Objetivo Comparar o perfil epidemiológico de pacientes com doença renal em estágio final (DREF) em terapia renal substitutiva (TRS) na América Latina e na Europa e examinar as diferenças nos indicadores macroeconômicos, características demográficas e clínicas, taxas de mortalidade e causas de morte entre as duas populações de pacientes. Métodos O estudo foi baseado em informação de 20 registros latino-americanos e 49 registros nacionais e subnacionais europeus que haviam fornecido dados ao Registro Latino-Americano de Diálise e Transplante Renal (RLADTR) e Registro da Associação Europeia de Nefrologia e Associação Europeia de Diálise e Transplante (ERA-EDTA), respectivamente. A incidência e a prevalência de TRS em 2013 foram calculadas por milhão de habitantes (pmh), geral e por subcategorias de idade, sexo, doença renal primária e modalidade de tratamento. A correlação entre o produto interno bruto (PIB) e a prevalência de TRS foi analisada com o uso de regressão linear. Tendências na prevalência de TRS entre 2004 e 2013 foram analisadas com o uso de regressão linear segmentada. Resultados Em 2013, a incidência geral ao dia 91 do início de TRS foi 181 pmh nos países latino-americanos e 130 pmh nos países europeus. Observou-se uma prevalência geral de TRS de 660 pmh na América Latina e 782 pmh na Europa. No período 2004-2013, o aumento médio anual da prevalência foi de 4,0% (intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC 95%] 2,5%-5,6%) nos países latino-americanos, enquanto que houve um aumento médio anual de 2,2% (IC 95% 2,0%-2,4%) nos países europeus. A taxa de mortalidade bruta foi maior na América Latina que na Europa (112 versus 100 óbitos por 1.000 pacientes-anos) e doença cardiovascular foi a principal causa de morte em ambas as regiões. Conclusões Existem diferenças consideráveis entre a América Latina e a Europa no perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes com DREF em TRS. Outras pesquisas devem ser realizadas para investigar mais a fundo estas diferenças.

The changing trends and outcomes in renal replacement therapy: data from the ERA-EDTA Registry.

BACKGROUND: This study examines the time trends in incidence, prevalence, patient and kidney allograft survival and causes of death (COD) in patients receiving renal replacement therapy (RRT) in Europe. METHODS: Eighteen national or regional renal registries providing data to the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association Registry between 1998 and 2011 were included. Incidence and prevalence time trends between 2001 and 2011 were studied with Joinpoint and Poisson regression. Patient and kidney allograft survival and COD between 1998 and 2011 were analysed using Kaplan-Meier and competing risk methods and Cox regression. RESULTS: From 2001 to 2008, the adjusted incidence of RRT rose by 1.1% (95% CI: 0.6, 1.7) annually to 131 per million population (pmp). During 2008-2011, the adjusted incidence fell by 2.2% (95% CI: -4.2, -0.2) annually to 125 pmp. This decline occurred predominantly in patients aged 45-64 years, 65-74 years and in the primary renal diseases diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2, renovascular disease and glomerulonephritis. Between 2001 and 2011, the overall adjusted prevalence increased from 724 to 1032 pmp (+3.3% annually, 95% CI: 2.8, 3.8). The adjusted 5-year patient survival on RRT improved between 1998-2002 and 2003-2007 [adjusted hazard ratio (HRa) 0.85, 95% CI: 0.84, 0.86]. Comparing these time periods, the risk of cardiovascular deaths fell by 25% (HRa 0.75, 95% CI: 0.74, 0.77). However the risk of malignant death rose by 9% (HRa 1.09, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.16) in patients ≥65 years. CONCLUSION: This European study shows a declining RRT incidence, particularly in patients aged 45-64 years, 65-74 years and secondary to diabetic nephropathy. Encouragingly, the adjusted RRT patient survival continues to improve. The risk of cardiovascular death has decreased, though the risk of death from malignancy has increased in the older population.

Renal replacement therapy in Europe: a summary of the 2012 ERA-EDTA Registry Annual Report.

BACKGROUND: This article summarizes the 2012 European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association Registry Annual Report (available at www.era-edta-reg.org) with a specific focus on older patients (defined as ≥65 years). METHODS: Data provided by 45 national or regional renal registries in 30 countries in Europe and bordering the Mediterranean Sea were used. Individual patient level data were received from 31 renal registries, whereas 14 renal registries contributed data in an aggregated form. The incidence, prevalence and survival probabilities of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving renal replacement therapy (RRT) and renal transplantation rates for 2012 are presented. RESULTS: In 2012, the overall unadjusted incidence rate of patients with ESRD receiving RRT was 109.6 per million population (pmp) (n = 69 035), ranging from 219.9 pmp in Portugal to 24.2 pmp in Montenegro. The proportion of incident patients ≥75 years varied from 15 to 44% between countries. The overall unadjusted prevalence on 31 December 2012 was 716.7 pmp (n = 451 270), ranging from 1670.2 pmp in Portugal to 146.7 pmp in the Ukraine. The proportion of prevalent patients ≥75 years varied from 11 to 32% between countries. The overall renal transplantation rate in 2012 was 28.3 pmp (n = 15 673), with the highest rate seen in the Spanish region of Catalonia. The proportion of patients ≥65 years receiving a transplant ranged from 0 to 35%. Five-year adjusted survival for all RRT patients was 59.7% (95% confidence interval, CI: 59.3-60.0) which fell to 39.3% (95% CI: 38.7-39.9) in patients 65-74 years and 21.3% (95% CI: 20.8-21.9) in patients ≥75 years.

Mortality from infections and malignancies in patients treated with renal replacement therapy: data from the ERA-EDTA registry.

BACKGROUND: Infections and malignancies are the most common non-cardiovascular causes of death in patients on chronic renal replacement therapy (RRT). Here, we aimed to quantify the mortality risk attributed to infections and malignancies in dialysis patients and kidney transplant recipients when compared with the general population by age group and sex. METHODS: We followed 168 156 patients included in the ERA-EDTA registry who started RRT in 1993-2007 until 1 January 2012. Age- and cause-specific mortality rates per 1000 person-years (py) and mortality rate ratios (MRRs) compared with the European general population (WHO) were calculated. To identify risk factors, we used Cox regression. RESULTS: Infection-related mortality was increased 82-fold in dialysis patients and 32-fold in transplant recipients compared with the general population. Female sex, diabetes, cancer and multisystem disease were associated with an increased risk of infection-related mortality. The sex difference was most pronounced for dialysis patients aged 0-39 years, with women having a 32% (adjusted HR 1.32 95% CI 1.09-1.60) higher risk of infection-related mortality than men. Mortality from malignancies was 2.9 times higher in dialysis patients and 1.7 times higher in transplant recipients than in the general population. Cancer and multisystem disease as primary causes of end-stage renal disease were associated with higher mortality from malignancies. CONCLUSION: Infection-related mortality is highly increased in dialysis and kidney transplant patients, while the risk of malignancy-related death is moderately increased. Young women on dialysis may deserve special attention because of their high excess risk of infection-related mortality. Further research into the mechanisms, prevention and optimal treatment of infections in this vulnerable population is required.

Renal replacement therapy in Europe: a summary of the 2011 ERA-EDTA Registry Annual Report.

BACKGROUND: This article provides a summary of the 2011 ERA-EDTA Registry Annual Report (available at www.era-edta-reg.org). METHODS: Data on renal replacement therapy (RRT) for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) from national and regional renal registries in 30 countries in Europe and bordering the Mediterranean Sea were used. From 27 registries, individual patient data were received, whereas 17 registries contributed data in aggregated form. We present the incidence and prevalence of RRT, and renal transplant rates in 2011. In addition, survival probabilities and expected remaining lifetimes were calculated for those registries providing individual patient data. RESULTS: The overall unadjusted incidence rate of RRT in 2011 among all registries reporting to the ERA-EDTA Registry was 117 per million population (pmp) (n = 71.631). Incidence rates varied from 24 pmp in Ukraine to 238 pmp in Turkey. The overall unadjusted prevalence of RRT for ESRD on 31 December 2011 was 692 pmp (n = 425 824). The highest prevalence was reported by Portugal (1662 pmp) and the lowest by Ukraine (131 pmp). Among all registries, a total of 22 814 renal transplantations were performed (37 pmp). The highest overall transplant rate was reported from Spain, Cantabria (81 pmp), whereas the highest rate of living donor transplants was reported from Turkey (39 pmp). For patients who started RRT between 2002 and 2006, the unadjusted 5-year patient survival on RRT was 46.8% [95% confidence interval (CI) 46.6-47.0], and on dialysis 39.3% (95% CI 39.2-39.4). The unadjusted 5-year patient survival after the first renal transplantation performed between 2002 and 2006 was 86.7% (95% CI 86.2-87.2) for kidneys from deceased donors and 94.3% (95% CI 93.6-95.0) for kidneys from living donors.

Renal replacement therapy in Europe-a summary of the 2010 ERA-EDTA Registry Annual Report.

BACKGROUND: This study provides a summary of the 2010 European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association (ERA-EDTA) Registry Annual Report (available at www.era-edta-reg.org). METHODS: This report includes data on renal replacement therapy (RRT) using data from the national and regional renal registries in 29 countries in Europe and bordering the Mediterranean Sea. Individual patient data were received from 27 registries, whereas 18 registries contributed data in aggregated form. We present incidence and prevalence of RRT, transplant rates, survival probabilities and expected remaining lifetimes. The latter two are solely based on individual patient records. RESULTS: In 2010, the overall incidence rate of RRT for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) among all registries reporting to the ERA-EDTA Registry was 123 per million population (pmp) (n = 91 798). The highest incidence rate was reported by Turkey (252pmp) and the lowest reported by Montenegro (21 pmp). The overall prevalence of RRT for ESRD at 31 December 2010 among all registries reporting to the ERA-EDTA Registry was 741 pmp (n = 551 005). The prevalence varied from 124 pmp in Ukraine to 1580 pmp in Portugal. The overall number of renal transplantations performed in 2010 among all registries was 29.2 pmp (n = 21 740). The highest overall transplant rate was reported from Spain, Cantabria (73 pmp), whereas the highest transplant rate for living donor kidneys was reported from the Netherlands (28 pmp). For patients who started RRT between 2001 and 2005, the unadjusted 5-year patient survival on RRT was 46.2% [95% confidence interval (CI) 46.0-46.3], and on dialysis 38.6% (95% CI 38.5-38.8). The unadjusted 5-year patient survival after the first renal transplantation performed between 2001 and 2005 was 86.6% (95% CI 86.1-87.1) for deceased donor kidneys and 94.1% (95% CI 93.4-94.8) for living donor kidneys.

Renal replacement therapy in Europe-a summary of the 2009 ERA-EDTA Registry Annual Report.

INTRODUCTION: This study provides a summary of the 2009 ERA-EDTA Registry Report, with a focus on the differences in the incidence and prevalence of haemodialysis (HD), peritoneal dialysis (PD) and renal transplantation between countries and over time. METHODS: For this report, 56 data sets on renal replacement therapy (RRT) from national and regional registries in 30 countries in Europe and bordering the Mediterranean Sea were available. Data sets with individual patient data were received from 26 registries, whereas 19 registries contributed data in aggregated form. For both types of registries, we present incidence, prevalence and transplant rates. Survival analysis is based on individual patient records. RESULTS: In 2009, the overall incidence rate of RRT for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) among all registries reporting to the ERA-EDTA Registry was 125 per million population (p.m.p.). Incidence rates varied from 259 p.m.p. in Turkey to 19 p.m.p. in Ukraine and the mean age of patients starting RRT in 2009 ranged from 47.6 years in Russia to 69.5 year in Dutch-speaking Belgium. When examining the relative change of the HD, PD and transplantation distribution (at Day 91 after the start of RRT) between 2005 and 2009, we found overall a 0.5% decrease in HD, 1.4% decrease in PD utilization and an 1.8% increase of the share of patients living on a functioning graft. The overall prevalence of RRT for ESRD as of 31 December 2009 was 730 p.m.p. The highest prevalence was reported by Portugal (1507 p.m.p.) and the lowest by Ukraine (101 p.m.p.). In Norway, 70% of the patients on RRT were living with a functioning graft (591 p.m.p.) at 31 December 2009. The number of transplants performed p.m.p. in 2009 was highest in Spain (Cantabria) (78 p.m.p.). For the cohort 2000-04, the adjusted 1-, 2- and 5-year survival of patients on RRT was 87.4% (95% confidence interval: 87.2-87.7), 78.5% (95% confidence interval: 78.2-78.8) and 56.3% (95% confidence interval: 55.9-56.7), respectively.

Exploration of the difference in incidence of renal replacement therapy between Flanders and the Netherlands--investigation of explanatory variables.

AIM: This study investigates the difference in the incidence of renal replacement therapy (RRT) between Flanders and the Netherlands and possible explanations for this difference. METHODS: End-stage renal disease incidence data were obtained from the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association (ERA-EDTA). Additional sources were the National Institute of Statistics (NIS), the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) health data and the WHO Health For All database (WHO-HFA). RESULTS: There is remarkable difference in incidence rate of RRT between Flanders and the Netherlands, with a higher rate in Flanders. This difference is already present in patients aged 45-64 years and increases with age, being >2-fold higher in subjects of ≥ 75 years. With respect to the renal diagnoses leading to need for RRT, a higher share of especially diabetes mellitus type 2 and renovascular disease was observed in Flanders. Remarkably, the difference in incidence rate of RRT is not associated with a difference in survival on RRT, not even in the elderly, arguing against a restricted access to RRT in the Netherlands. In the general population, the expected number of healthy life years at birth is lower in Belgium than in the Netherlands, and in Belgium, the hospital discharge rates for diabetes, acute myocardial infarction and cerebrovascular accident and the number of coronary bypass procedures and percutaneous coronary interventions per capitum is higher, as is the prevalence of obesity. CONCLUSION: Our data do not support the assumption that the differences in RRT incidence in the elderly between Flanders and the Netherlands are due to a more restricted access to RRT in the Netherlands but may be due to differences in underlying comorbidity and life style between the two populations.

Disordered mineral metabolism is not a risk factor for loss of residual renal function in dialysis patients.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies showed that mineral metabolism disorders are associated with renal function loss in pre-dialysis patients, but their effects in dialysis patients are less well established. We examined associations between parameters of mineral metabolism and loss of residual renal function (RRF) in dialysis patients. METHODS: We included 1468 incident haemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients who were not anuric at dialysis initiation from NECOSAD, a prospective multicentre cohort study. We studied the effects of plasma calcium, phosphorus, calcium-phosphorus product and intact PTH concentrations on loss of RRF. Cox regression models were applied to calculate relative risks of total loss of RRF, defined as anuria during the first 3 years of dialysis. The rate of decline of RRF over time was calculated using general linear mixed models. RESULTS: The mean (SD) age was 59 (15), 62% were men and 59% were treated with HD. We found that both HD and PD patients with the highest phosphorus (P < 0.0001) and calcium-phosphorus product (P < 0.0001) levels had the lowest baseline residual glomerular filtration rate (rGFR) values. During follow-up, 136 HD (15%) and 67 PD patients (12%) became anuric. After adjustment for baseline rGFR, there were no significant associations between parameters of mineral metabolism and the risk of becoming anuric. There were also no differences in the rate of decline in RRF between categories of plasma concentrations. CONCLUSION: Disordered mineral metabolism was neither associated with the risk of becoming anuric, nor with the rate of decline in RRF in dialysis patients. Differences in decline were mainly attributable to the baseline rGFR value.

Mineral metabolism and mortality in dialysis patients: a reassessment of the K/DOQI guideline.

BACKGROUND: Several studies found associations between higher plasma calcium and phosphorus and mortality in dialysis patients. However, different predefined categories and reference values were applied and the precise shape of these relationships remains unclear. METHODS: We evaluated 1,621 patients from NECOSAD, a prospective multicenter cohort study of incident dialysis patients (60 +/- 15 years, 61% male, 64% hemodialysis). We used multivariate Cox regression and restricted cubic spline regression to study the effects of time-updated plasma concentrations on mortality in a flexible manner. RESULTS: 486 patients (30%) died during follow-up. Elevated phosphorus concentration was associated with higher mortality (p = 0.0009). The association of high calcium with mortality was borderline significant (p = 0.07). Within the studied ranges, we could not identify a threshold where an appreciable change in mortality risk occurred. CONCLUSIONS: Mortality risk started to increase at a relatively low phosphorus concentration (4.5 mg/dl). Low-normal calcium combined with low-normal phosphorus concentration was associated with the lowest mortality.

Disturbed mineral metabolism is associated with muscle and skin complaints in a prospective cohort of dialysis patients.

BACKGROUND: Disturbed mineral metabolism is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, however, its influence on physical symptoms is less clear. We explored the effects of disordered plasma calcium, phosphorus, calcium-phosphorus (Ca x P) product and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) concentrations according to the K/DOQI guideline for bone metabolism and disease on the risk of muscle and skin complaints in dialysis patients. METHODS: As part of NECOSAD, a prospective multicentre study in the Netherlands, we included 1469 consecutive patients who started haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis between 1997 and 2004. Muscle pain, cramps and itching (pruritus) and dry (xerosis) skin were repeatedly measured using the Kidney Disease Quality of Life-Short Form questionnaire. Odds ratios (OR) for the risk of complaints over time were calculated by generalized estimating equations (GEE) models. RESULTS: Mean age was 59 +/- 15 years, 61% of the patients were male and 63% were on haemodialysis. At baseline >65% of the patients had muscle and skin complaints. Compared with patients who met the target, the risk of muscle pain was increased in patients with hyperphosphataemia [OR: 1.2; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1-1.5] iPTH concentrations below the target range were associated with lower risk of cramps (OR 0.8, 95%CI: 0.6-0.9). The risk of pruritus was increased in patients with severely elevated plasma calcium (OR 1.4; 95%CI: 1.1-1.7), phosphorus (OR 1.4; 95%CI: 1.1-1.7) and Ca x P product levels (OR 1.6; 95%CI: 1.3-2.0). Finally, increased plasma calcium concentrations were associated with an elevated risk of xerosis (OR 1.4; 95%CI: 1.1-1.9). CONCLUSIONS: Disturbed mineral metabolism according to the K/DOQI guideline is associated with more muscle and skin complaints in dialysis patients. These findings emphasize the importance of keeping mineral metabolism in dialysis patients in tight control.

Mineral metabolism and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality risk: peritoneal dialysis patients compared with haemodialysis patients.

BACKGROUND: The K/DOQI guideline for bone metabolism and disease in chronic kidney disease is predominantly based on studies in haemodialysis (HD) patients. However, in clinical practice, this guideline is also applied to peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. To validate the implementation of this guideline in PD patients, we evaluated the associations between plasma concentrations outside the K/DOQI-targets and the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in incident PD patients compared with HD patients. METHODS: In a large prospective multicentre study in the Netherlands (The Netherlands Cooperative Study on the Adequacy of Dialysis, NECOSAD), we included patients starting PD or HD between 1997 and 2004. Relative risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality were estimated using time-dependent Cox regression modelling. RESULTS: We included 586 PD patients with mean age 52 +/- 15 years (66% males) and 1043 HD patients with mean age 63 +/- 14 years (58% males). Cardiovascular disease (CVD) was the reason for hospitalization in 102 PD and 271 HD patients. In HD patients, the relative risk of CVD-related hospitalization increased with elevated plasma calcium concentrations (hazard ratio: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1-1.9). Cardiovascular mortality was significantly higher for phosphorus concentrations above the K/DOQI-threshold in PD (2.4; 95% CI: 1.3-4.2) and HD patients (1.5; 95% CI: 1.1-2.1), and for elevated Ca x P in PD (2.2; 95% CI: 1.3-3.8) and HD patients (1.5; 95% CI: 1.1-2.1). CONCLUSIONS: Plasma calcium concentrations above the K/DOQI-threshold increase the relative risk of CVD-related hospitalization in HD patients. Associations with cardiovascular mortality were more pronounced. Both in PD and HD patients with elevated plasma phosphorus and Ca x P concentrations, the cardiovascular mortality risk is increased. Therefore, it seems appropriate to adopt the current guideline in PD patients.

The Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/DOQI) Guideline for Bone Metabolism and Disease in CKD: association with mortality in dialysis patients.

BACKGROUND: In 2003, the National Kidney Foundation-Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (K/DOQI) published a guideline recommending tight control of serum calcium, phosphorus, calcium-phosphorus product (Ca x P), and intact parathyroid hormone levels in patients with chronic kidney disease. Within the context of this guideline, we explored associations of these plasma concentrations with all-cause mortality risk in incident dialysis patients in The Netherlands. METHODS: In a large, prospective, multicenter, cohort study (Netherlands Cooperative Study on the Adequacy of Dialysis), we included 1,629 patients new on hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis therapy between 1997 and 2004. Multivariate Cox regression models containing calcium level, phosphorus level, intact parathyroid hormone level, age, comorbidity, primary kidney disease, nutritional status, albumin level, dialysis dose, and hemoglobin level were used to examine mortality risks. RESULTS: Mean age was 60 +/- 15 (SD) years, 61% were men, and 64% were treated with hemodialysis. In adjusted time-dependent survival analysis, all-cause mortality risk increased in hemodialysis patients by 40% (hazard ratio [HR], 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1 to 1.7) and in peritoneal dialysis patients by 60% (HR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.4) for plasma phosphorus levels greater than the target. In addition, having elevated plasma Ca x P product levels increased mortality risk by 40% (HR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1 to 1.8) in hemodialysis patients and 50% in peritoneal dialysis patients (HR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.0 to 2.2). In both patient groups, no significant effects were observed for plasma levels less than the targets. CONCLUSION: In time-dependent survival analysis, the presence of plasma phosphorus and Ca x P product concentrations greater than K/DOQI targets increased all-cause mortality risk in hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients.

Blood pressure response to chronic intake of coffee and caffeine: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

PURPOSE: Coffee is a widely consumed beverage and small health effects of substances in coffee may have large public health consequences. It has been suggested that caffeine in coffee increases the risk of hypertension. We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of coffee or caffeine and blood pressure (BP). DATA IDENTIFICATION: BP trials of coffee or caffeine published between January 1966 and January 2003 were identified through literature databases and manual search. STUDY SELECTION: A total of 16 studies with a randomized, controlled design and at least 7 days of intervention was selected, comprising 25 strata and 1010 subjects. DATA EXTRACTION: Two persons independently obtained data on sample size, type and duration of intervention, changes in BP and heart rate (HR), and subjects' characteristics for each trial. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. RESULTS: A significant rise of 2.04 mmHg [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.10-2.99] in systolic BP and 0.73 mmHg (95% CI, 0.14-1.31) in diastolic BP was found after pooling of coffee and caffeine trials. When coffee trials (n = 18, median intake: 725 ml/day) and caffeine trials (n = 7, median dose: 410 mg/day) were analysed separately, BP elevations appeared to be larger for caffeine [systolic: 4.16 mmHg (2.13-6.20); diastolic: 2.41 mmHg (0.98-3.84)] than for coffee [systolic: 1.22 mmHg (0.52-1.92) and diastolic: 0.49 mmHg (-0.06-1.04)]. Effects on HR were negligible. CONCLUSIONS: Regular caffeine intake increases BP. When ingested through coffee, however, the blood pressure effect of caffeine is small.