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Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) Prevention Program |
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New report details health disparities in hemodialysis-associated Staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections in the United States
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released a Vital Signs report that focuses on health disparities related to hemodialysis-associated Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bloodstream infections among people receiving dialysis treatment for end-stage kidney disease. Using data from the National Healthcare Safety Network, Emerging Infections Program, and various population-based data sources, the report analyzed S. aureus bloodstream infection data in relation to access sites and patient race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.
Key findings include the following:
- While S. aureus bloodstream infection risk was strongly associated with patient vascular access, it is unlikely to be the only factor contributing to increased risk.
- Central venous catheter (CVC) vascular access had a six times higher risk of infection compared to fistula access.
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S. aureus bloodstream infection rates were 100 times higher in hemodialysis patients compared to adults not on hemodialysis during 2017–2020.
- Black persons make up 33% of all U.S. patients receiving dialysis, but only 12% of the overall U.S. population.
- Hispanic ethnicity was independently associated with a 40% higher risk for S. aureus bloodstream infections.
- Areas with higher poverty levels, higher household crowding, and lower education levels accounted for disproportionately higher proportions of hemodialysis-associated S. aureus bloodstream infections.
These findings suggest that Black and Hispanic patients have a higher risk of S. aureus bloodstream infections, and that lower socioeconomic status may be associated with this type of infection. Furthermore, the potential association between race and ethnicity and vascular access type should also be considered. Health care providers and public health professionals should prioritize prevention and optimize treatment of dialysis patients. This includes identifying lower-risk vascular access placement and addressing barriers to prevent bloodstream infections.
For more information, view the full report.
Questions?
Please send questions to the HAI Program at DHSWIHAIPreventionProgram@dhs.wisconsin.gov.
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