| Theme | Considering the timing of chronic dialysis (renal replacement therapy) initiation | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Results of Japanese Renal Data Registry concerning optimal timing of dialysis initiation | |
| Publish Date | 2012/12 | |
| Author | Norio Hanafusa | Department of Hemodialysis and Apheresis, The University of Tokyo Hospital / Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy |
| [ Summary ] | An annual census is performed by the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy. This census, investigating incident dialysis patients has been conducted four times. Analysis of data revealed long-term survival rates were lower for patients having higher eGFR values at initiation, relating to poorer prognoses. Patients who survived the first five years did not experience these conditions. Shorter-term survival analysis indicated that eGFR values greater than 6-8 mL/min/1.73 m2 at initiation related to poorer survival rates. Although the exact reason remains unclear, Japanese incident hemodialysis patients enjoy better survival rates compared to their Western counterparts despite reduced renal functions at initiation. Prospective interventional studies are anticipated to consider the limitations in observational studies. | |