In multivariable analysis, the development of pneumonia was independently predicted by radiographic evidence of pleural effusion at admission, de novo AHF, presence of mitral regurgitation, a history of stroke/transient ischaemic attack, T2DM and CKD, and increased admission levels of NT-proBNP (≥ the median value of 5,293 pg/ml), Table 2. Here, NPPB is linked to chronic kidney disease.