Anemia occurs in approximately 15% of patients with CKD1 and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, as well as reduced quality of life.2,3 Between 30% and 50% of patients with kidney failure treated by chronic dialysis have high levels of biomarkers of inflammation, such as IL-6 and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP).3 Elevated levels of hsCRP are also associated with the onset of anemia in patients with earlier stages of CKD,4 and there is evidence that a reduction in inflammation, reflected by a decline in hsCRP, may improve outcomes in patients with CKD.3 Here, IL6 is linked to anemia (phenotype).