Study on the Relationship Between Red Cell Distribution Width and Prognosis in Newly Initiated Hemodialysis Patients

Background: This study aims to assess the impact of varying levels of Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) on all-cause mortality among hemodialysis patients. Methods:This retrospective cohort study comprised 377 patients who began hemodialysis at our center from September 1, 2015, to December 31, 2022.We stratified patients into quartiles based on RDW values and employed Cox regression to evaluate the correlation between RDW levels and mortality rates, while adjusting for confounders like age, albumin, and ferritin levels.Results: Significantly, elevated RDW levels correlated with increased all-cause mortality among hemodialysis patients.Those in the Highest RDW Quartile (Q4) faced a mortality risk (HR = 1.378, 95% CI: 1.144-1.659,p = 0.001) substantially greater than those in the Lowest Quartile (Q1).RDW persisted as an independent mortality predictor (HR = 1.237, 95% CI: 1.015-1.508,p = 0.035) after adjusting for age, albumin, and ferritin, which themselves were significant predictors. Conclusion:RDW, a commonly measured hematological marker, demonstrates considerable potential for evaluating mortality risk in hemodialysis patients.Future research should delve into the causal dynamics between RDW levels and mortality to identify intervention strategies that could enhance survival outcomes for these individuals.