Expert recommendations for the management of iron deficiency in patients with heart failure in Asia

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Internal Medicine
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Iron deficiency is a frequent comorbidity in heart failure (HF), negatively impacting quality of life and exercise capacity.
• It increases hospitalization risk in HF patients, irrespective of anemia.
• Established international guidelines for iron deficiency management in HF exist, but are less developed in Asia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide expert guidance for managing iron deficiency in heart failure patients within the Asian community.
• To address the limited established guidelines and practical application of management strategies in the region.

Main Methods:

• A panel of cardiologists from various Asian countries convened to discuss and formulate recommendations.
• Expert opinions were gathered on screening, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of iron deficiency in HF.

Main Results:

• Recommendations include screening all heart failure with reduced ejection fraction patients for iron deficiency.
• Intravenous iron treatment is advised for iron-deficient HF patients, with annual or biannual monitoring.
• Identified barriers include low physician awareness, lack of reimbursement, and inadequate facilities for IV iron administration.

Conclusions:

• These expert recommendations offer a structured framework for managing iron deficiency in Asian heart failure patients.
• Implementation of these guidelines can help overcome regional barriers and improve patient outcomes.