Assessing the relationship between serum electrolyte imbalances and cardiovascular risk in dialysis patients: A cross-sectional study

Objective: This study aimed to assess the relationship between serum electrolyte disturbances and cardiovascular risk in this population. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 290 hemodialysis patients (Mean (SD) age: 61.4 (13.2) years; 152 (52.4%) Males) at Department of Urology, at Bacha Khan Medical College and Mardan Medical Complex Mardan from January 2024 to June 2024. Demographic data, clinical histories, and laboratory values, including serum levels of sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus, were collected. Cardiovascular risk was assessed using clinical parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate, and lipid profile. Statistical analyses, including correlation coefficients, logistic regression, and multivariate models, were used to identify associations between electrolyte imbalances and cardiovascular risk. Results: Hypertension 258 (89.0%) and diabetes mellitus 258 (89.0%) were the predominant comorbidities. Electrolyte abnormalities were common, with 38 patients (13.1%) of patients presenting with hyponatremia, 34 patients (11.7%) demonstrating hyperkalemia, and 104 patients (35.9%) exhibiting hyperphosphatemia. Notable correlations were identified between serum electrolyte concentrations and cardiovascular metrics: potassium exhibited a positive correlation with heart rate (r = 0.34, p = 0.001), sodium demonstrated an inverse correlation with blood pressure (r = -0.28, p = 0.002), and phosphorus showed a positive correlation with hs-CRP (r = 0.41, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Electrolyte imbalances, particularly hyperkalemia and hyperphosphatemia, are significantly associated with cardiovascular risk in hemodialysis patients. These findings highlight the importance of regular monitoring and management of serum electrolytes to mitigate cardiovascular complications in this high-risk population. Keywords: Electrolyte imbalance, Cardiovascular risk, Hemodialysis, Hyperkalemia, Hyperphosphatemia, Hypertension