Most importantly, in stepwise Cox regression analysis the association of low Klotho with the primary outcome stayed significant after stepwise adjustment for cFGF3, PTH, Ca x P product, established risk factors (age, dialysis vintage, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, history of cardiovascular disease) as well as cfPWV and ccIMT, which are intermediate cardiovascular endpoints with known association with hard outcomes in this population. This evidence concerns the gene KL and diabetes mellitus.