Table 1 Specific aims of sub-studies in the DEcIDE patient outcomes in end stage renal disease study

1. Antihypertensive management

a. To assess the comparative effectiveness of ACE inhibitors/ARBs , Beta Blockers, and Calcium Channel Blockers in preventing all cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality among dialysis patients

b. To assess the comparative effectiveness of ACE inhibitors/ARBs, Beta Blockers and Calcium Channel Blockers in preventing morbidity (CVD events, all cause hospitalizations, quality of life, worsening disability) among patients on dialysis

2. Timing of dialysis initiation

a. To assess the comparative effectiveness of early versus conventional dialysis initiation on risk of all cause and cardiovascular mortality

b. To assess the comparative effectiveness of early versus conventional dialysis initiation on morbidity (cardiovascular events, all cause and infectious hospitalizations, health-related quality of life, comorbid disease control, and nutritional status)

3. Intravenous iron for anemia management

a. To compare the effectiveness of iron dosing strategies (regular maintenance therapy versus intermittent ‘as needed’ therapy) on anemia management

b. To assess the comparative effectiveness of lower versus higher cumulative IV iron doses on CVD-related hospitalization and mortality, infection-related hospitalization and mortality, all cause mortality, and quality of life