High erythropoietin levels in people over age 85 indicate a higher risk of death, according to a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ).

Erythropoietin is a hormone created in the kidneys to stimulate production of red blood cells. Production is triggered by impaired oxygen delivery to the kidney because of anemia or low blood oxygen levels. In patients with chronic heart failure, high erythropoietin levels predict higher mortality.

The researchers looked at data from the Leiden 85-plus Study which involved 428 people aged 85 years or older in Leiden, the Netherlands.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/10/101025123852.htm