Researchers have identified anemia, low levels of a protein called hemoglobin that delivers oxygen throughout the body, as a significant risk factor for the progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) in patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN). A recent study involving 855 Korean patients revealed that low hemoglobin levels, even if only slightly below normal, increase the risk of ESKD, especially in women.*

Impact of Anemia on ESKD Risk in Women

Normal hemoglobin levels can vary, but general results for adult females are in the 12.1 to 15.1 range. 

In the study, conducted by Dr. Sun-Hee Park and colleagues at Kyungpook National University Hospital:

• Anemia was associated with a 2.9 increased risk for ESKD. Patients with hemoglobin levels below 11.9 faced a 3.4 higher risk than those with levels between 13 and 14.
• Women showed a 4.1 increased risk for ESKD due to anemia, while no such association was found in men.
• Women with hemoglobin levels of 10.5 to 11.5 had a 3.8 increased risk, and those with levels below 10.5 had a 6.2 increased risk.

Persistent proteinuria, hypertension, and low GFR have been known predictors of renal outcomes in IgAN. 

This study introduced low hemoglobin levels as a new and independent risk factor.

What It Means Going Forward

The association between anemia and the progression of IgA nephropathy to end-stage kidney disease underscores the importance of early and continuous monitoring of hemoglobin levels. 

This is particularly vital for women, who appear to be at a higher risk. The findings advocate for a proactive approach in managing anemia as a part of comprehensive care for IgAN patients to mitigate the risk of severe renal outcomes, specifically:

• Addressing anemia as part of a holistic treatment approach for IgAN patients could significantly impact disease progression and patient outcomes.
• Developing gender-specific strategies for monitoring and managing hemoglobin levels might be crucial, given the different impacts on men and women.

The study emphasized the necessity of monitoring hemoglobin levels at the time of diagnosis. Dr. Park’s team recommended proactive measures to manage and monitor hemoglobin levels to reduce the risk of disease progression.

*Persaud, N. (2024, June 7). Anemia Increases ESKD Risk in Women With IgA Nephropathy. Renal and Urology News. https://www.renalandurologynews.com/news/anemia-increases-eskd-risk-in-women-with-iga-nephropathy/ 

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