New research from the University Medicine Halle is raising questions about the established thresholds for uric acid levels and their potential link to cardiovascular disease. The study, analyzing data and samples from over 70,000 participants in the NAKO health study, reveals a correlation between uric acid concentration and arterial stiffness, even within ranges currently considered normal.
Researchers investigated the relationship between blood serum uric acid levels and pulse wave velocity, a key indicator of arterial stiffness. A significant finding was that even among the vast majority of participants (approximately 90%) whose uric acid levels fell within the generally accepted normal range, a positive correlation with arterial stiffness was observed. This connection proved to be particularly pronounced in women.
The study’s implications suggest a possible revision of current uric acid thresholds, currently defined as 140-360 µmol/l for women and 180-420 µmol/l for men. The researchers propose that preventative therapeutic strategies, including medication to lower uric acid levels, may warrant consideration even within these “normal” ranges, especially for women presenting with other cardiovascular risk factors. The findings highlight the need for further investigation into the nuances of uric acid’s impact on cardiovascular health, particularly in female populations.
