New research from the University Medicine Halle reveals a significant link between uric acid levels and cardiovascular risk, even within currently accepted ‘normal’ ranges. The study, analyzing data and samples from over 70,000 participants in the NAKO Health Study, demonstrates a correlation between uric acid concentrations and arterial stiffness, a key indicator of cardiovascular health.
Researchers investigated the relationship between blood serum uric acid levels and pulse wave velocity, a measure of arterial stiffness. Strikingly, the majority (nine out of ten) of the participants examined exhibited uric acid levels within the accepted normal range. Despite this, a positive correlation with arterial stiffness was observed, particularly pronounced in female participants.
The findings suggest that existing guidelines for uric acid levels, currently set between 140-360 µmol/l for women and 180-420 µmol/l for men, may warrant re-evaluation. The study’s authors propose that preventative therapies utilizing uric acid-lowering medications could be considered for individuals, especially women, with additional cardiovascular risk factors, even when their uric acid levels fall within the established “normal” limits. Further research is needed to explore the implications of these findings and to determine optimal preventative strategies.