The evidence presented on the role of osteoblast and osteoclast activity during EPO‐stimulated erythropoietic response seems likely to stimulate the debate on the relative efficacy and safety of EPO vs hypoxia inducible factor‐prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors (HIF‐PHIs) for patients who require long‐term treatment for anemia. This evidence concerns the gene EPO and anemia (phenotype).