OBJECTIVES: Anemia is a common complication seen in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis (HD). This study was aimed at measuring the impact of anemia and other factors on quality of life (QoL).

METHODS: A prospective study was conducted in an Indian tertiary care dialysis unit and patients on maintenance HD were enrolled. Data regarding demographics, renal function values, Iron profile, co-morbid conditions, medication reconciliation and medications used to correct anemia were recorded at baseline and end of the study. The Quality of life, KDQOL-SF36 questionnaire (RAND version 1.3) was administered in English, Telugu and Hindi. The Physical, mental and total scores were then analyzed based on various parameters like, age, BMI, albumin and Hb levels.

RESULTS: A total of 80 patients completed the study with the majority being males (53,66%). About 39% were in the age group of 41-60 years and 40% had started HD in the past year. At the beginning of the study 54 patients (68%) were having Hb below the target level of < 11g/dl. Anemia was treated with only Erythropoeitins (42%) cases and combination with Iron (36%) and 22% had no supplements. Hb levels improved slightly with the combination (8.3% vs 7%). Assessment of QoL showed lowest means in burden of kidney disease (mean 23.98) and physical functioning (mean 13.75). The QoL was better in patients with Hb (10-11g/dL) and target Hb levels (11-12g/dL) (p<0.0001), in patients on HD over 2 years (p<0.0013) and of age below 60 years (p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS: There is a decline in the physical functioning, general health status and social life in hemodialysis population. Gender, age, body mass index, number of years on dialysis and co-morbids are some of the few factors impacting QoL. Correction of anemia to target Hb levels contributed to better quality of life.