RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SERUM URIC ACID LEVELS AND BLOOD PRESSURE ACROSS DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of hyperuricemia and its association with blood pressure across different age groups in patients attending outpatient clinics for general health check-ups at a tertiary care hospital.

Study Design: Quasi-experimental (case-control)

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Internal Medicine, Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College, PAF Faisal Base, Karachi, from November 18, 2024, to February 20, 2025

Methodology: Following ethical approval, 200 participants were recruited, including 100 newly diagnosed hypertensive patients (Group A) and 100 age-matched normotensive controls (Group B). Serum uric acid levels were measured, and hyperuricemia was defined based on standard clinical criteria. The primary outcome was the prevalence of hyperuricemia among hypertensive versus normotensive individuals. Secondary outcomes included assessment of serum uric acid levels across different age groups. Statistical analysis was conducted using chi-square tests and comparison of means, with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results: Hyperuricemia was observed in 64% of hypertensive patients compared to 21% of controls (p < 0.001). Mean serum uric acid levels were 5.58 ± 1.95 mg/dL in adolescents and 8.6 ± 1.76 mg/dL in geriatric patients, with no significant age-related correlation.

Conclusion: Hyperuricemia is strongly associated with elevated blood pressure, independent of age, highlighting its potential role as a modifiable risk factor in hypertension management.