Annual transfusions have increased since 2009 in patients with anemia due to CKD on dialysis1
In 2013, the annual percentage of patients with at least 1 red blood cell transfusion was 22.0%.1
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The trend of increased transfusion rates was similar for all patient characteristics, including age, dialysis vintage, gender, and race.1,*
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*This is a retrospective study to assess transfusion events in Medicare patients on hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis at the beginning of each year with follow-up through December 31, death, transplantation, or loss to follow-up during calendar years 2009-2013. Descriptive analyses relating to study outcomes were conducted in both the overall population as well as stratified by modality, dialysis duration, age, sex, and hemoglobin level. Patient population in each calendar year: 2009 N = 252,627; 2010 N = 263,801; 2011 N = 273,676; 2012 N = 282,410; 2013 N = 281,996.
Based on the changing trend, CMS stated they will continue to monitor the rate of transfusions.2
DOSING INFORMATION
- Individualize dosing and use the lowest dose of EPOGEN® sufficient to reduce the need for RBC transfusions.
- Physicians and patients should weigh the possible benefits of decreasing transfusions against the increased risks of death and other serious cardiovascular adverse reactions.
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