5th IMCIA: focus on anaemia and cardiology
Following the study of Patient Blood Management (PBM) and anaemia in onco-haematology, less than two weeks ahead of the 5th International Multidisciplinary Course on Iron Anaemia we are now discussing anaemia in cardiology.
Cardiology is a relatively new branch in which the issue of iron-deficiency anaemia is being explored. However, the results obtained with Sucrosomiale® Iron in other areas of medicine, suggest this to be an interesting field for further study.
We asked Professor Sandro Barni, President of the course, to explain to us how cardiology fits into the macro issue of iron-deficiency anaemia ahead of its discussion during the 5th IMCIA.
This is a relatively new field of study in cardiology. Why are we now discussing anaemia?
«Anaemia is a very common comorbidity (its presence or onset is an accessory pathological phenomenon during the clinical course of a disease under study) in patients with heart failure. It is acknowledged as a new therapeutic target in heart failure, since a reduction in haemoglobin (Hb) is considered a powerful independent predictor of an increased risk of death and hospitalisation. Hb transports oxygen, which is essential for the heart».
Which main aspects in the treatment of anaemia with oral Sucrosomiale® Iron bring improvements to a cardiac patient?
«There are no guidelines as yet relating to the treatment of anaemia in heart failure. There are few studies described in literature relating to therapy. The few multicentre randomised studies that analysed the effects of the use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in combination with intravenous iron therapy did not produce the expected results. Neither is it clear which Hb value should be reached, especially following the side effects and cardiovascular risk resulting after therapy with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in cancer patients. Although there are various aspects yet to be defined in this specific field, Sucrosomiale® Iron enables the administration of iron without affecting the compliance of the patient who, generally being elderly and under multiple treatments, often has problems relating to tolerability to treatment».
What prospects are taking shape and which are desired in this area?
«The safety and efficacy of Sucrosomiale® Iron, through the data already provided by nephrology, rheumatology, onco-haematology and gastroenterology, suggest there may also be room for excellence in cardiac patients».
