MO818SURVIVAL ON DIALYSIS: SWITZERLAND IN COMPARISON WITH OTHER COUNTRIES – A FOLLOW UP

Abstract

Abstract Background and Aims Survival in dialysis patients is substantially reduced compared to the general population. The aim of the present analysis was to compare the survival of dialysis patients in Switzerland with other countries with an additional year of follow up and a higher number of patients. Method Incident dialysis patients (hemo- or peritoneal dialysis; N=5'406) from the Swiss dialysis registry were followed up from 2014 to December 31, 2019 (median follow up days=658). Deaths occurring during this time (N=1'353) were recorded and survival was examined using the Kaplan Meier method, censored for transplantation. Results Characteristics of the dialysis population stratified according to survival status are provided in Table 1. Dialysis patients in Switzerland have an approximately 8% higher survival in the first and second year and about 10% higher 5 years after start of dialysis, compared to other European countries (Annual ERA-EDTA Report 2017). In the first two years, the proportion in survival rates between genders is similar in Switzerland, as well as in Europe. After 5 years, however, a difference in survival rates between genders becomes apparent, with women having a 5-year survival probability of 56.6%, compared to a lower 5-year survival probability of 49.7% in men. Conclusion The markedly better survival in dialysis patients in Switzerland compared to other European countries could be confirmed with an additional year of follow up and more patients. Also, causes of death vary widely among European countries. 5-year survival was calculated for the first time, with Switzerland showing almost 10% better survival rates than other European countries.