Patients with progressive chronic kidney disease are typically initiated on hemodialysis at CKD Stage 5.  But is there benefit to starting it earlier versus later in Stage 5.  This studies compares initiation of hemodialysis at eGFR 10-15 versus 5-7.

Here are some things to consider:

• How long is dialysis delayed between early and late starters?
• What is the difference in life expectancy?
• What other factors likely affect life expectancy after starting dialysis?