Uric Acid Levels Predict Death
- Published 01/29/2008
New research reveals that blood levels of uric acid are an effective predictor of the risk of death for middle aged men.
Usually passed in urine, uric acid is produced from the breakdown of nitrogen compounds. Uric acid is found in high levels in the joints of gout sufferers.
The study suggests that uric acid may be a "danger signal" released by damaged cells, triggering inflammation and a strong immune response.
Men with high uric acid levels had a 2.5 times greater risk of death from cardiovascular disease and 1.7 times greater risk of death from other causes. Adjustments for other health factors did not change the degree of increased risk.
Usually passed in urine, uric acid is produced from the breakdown of nitrogen compounds. Uric acid is found in high levels in the joints of gout sufferers.
The study suggests that uric acid may be a "danger signal" released by damaged cells, triggering inflammation and a strong immune response.
Men with high uric acid levels had a 2.5 times greater risk of death from cardiovascular disease and 1.7 times greater risk of death from other causes. Adjustments for other health factors did not change the degree of increased risk.