Baseline characteristics of the cohort as classified by the levels of hemoglobin (Hb groups).

<p>Continuous variables are noted as mean ± SD. Categorical variables are presented as n (%). CVD, cardiovascular diseases; ESA, erythropoiesis-stimulating agent; ERI, ESA responsiveness index; TSAT, transferrin saturation; hs-CRP, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein.</p><p>* Significant difference between a, b, and c (ANOVA, Scheffé test);</p><p>** significant difference among the five groups (Chi-square test).</p><p>Baseline characteristics of the cohort as classified by the levels of hemoglobin (Hb groups).