Synergistic Effect Between Anemia and Hyperuricemia Increases Mortality Risk in CKD Patients

A recent study has revealed a potential synergistic interaction between anemia and hyperuricemia, significantly raising the risk of all-cause mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). 
The research analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) spanning 2009 to 2018 and highlighted a concerning link between these conditions and mortality outcomes.
Among the 3,678 CKD patients studied, 819 deaths were recorded. After adjusting for variables, anemia (HR = 1.72) and hyperuricemia (HR = 1.21) were both independently associated with higher mortality risk. 
Notably, the study found a synergistic interaction between the two conditions, amplifying the risk of death when both were present. The relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI) was calculated at 0.630, and the attributable proportion of interaction (AP) was 0.291.
This combined effect was observed across various subgroups, including individuals aged 65 and older, males, and those with conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. 
These findings underscore the compounded impact of anemia and hyperuricemia on CKD patients’ survival, prompting further research to clarify the underlying mechanisms and causal relationships.
The study emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to monitor and manage both anemia and hyperuricemia in CKD patients to mitigate mortality risk.