Predicting death using body size in hemodialysis patients

The exposure of interest is body roundness index (BRI). To ascertain this measure, participants will undergo waist circumference measures using a flexible measuring tape at the midpoint between the lowest rib and the pelvic bone. Additionally, the participants will undergo height measures using a standing wall measure with the particpant in stocking feet, back against the measure, and a ruler at the crown of the head. Body roundness index (BRI) will be calculared using weight circumference and height, and categorized into 6.9 in hemodialysis patients. Secondary exposures/potential confounders include medical history, medication prescriptions and demographic variables will be extracted from the patient electronic medical record. The Israel Mediterranean Diet Screener (I-MEDAS) will be used to measure diet quality, a questionnaire that takes approximately 7 minutes to complete. The Hebrew-language short screening questionnaire for highly processed foods (HsQ-HPF) will be used to assess the degree to which the participant consumes processed foods. This questionnaire requires approximatly 7 minutes to complete. The primary outcome measure is 12 month mortality, which will be ascertained from vital records through the Ministry of Interior and the treating hospital. Secondary outcome measures include hospitalization for any reason, which will be recorded as occurred yes/no and if yes, the date of occurrence. Cardiovascular mortality will be ascertained through death certificates at the treating hospital and the Ministry of Interior. The overall duration of observation is 12 months from time of BRI measure.