Hyperuricemia in Aging: A Risk Factor or a Protective Mechanism for Physical Function?

Authors : Betül Gülsüm Yavuz Veizi, Sultan Keskin Demircan

Pages : 493-499

Doi:10.54005/geneltip.1638353

View : 44 | Download : 34

Publication Date : 2025-06-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Abstract Aim: Hyperuricemia is associated with metabolic and cardiovascular disease in older adults, but its effects on physical function and frailty remain unclear. While the antioxidant properties of serum uric acid (SUA) may have a protective effect, some studies suggest negative effects on mobility and muscle strength. This study examines the relationship between hyperuricemia, gait speed, dynapenia, and frailty. Methods: This retrospective study included 526 women aged 60 years and older. Gait speed, handgrip strength, and frailty status were assessed as part of a comprehensive geriatric examination. Hyperuricemia was defined as SUA levels ≥6 mg/dL. Binary logistic regression models adjusted for age, body mass index (BMI), hypertension, and depressive symptoms were used. Results: Hyperuricemia was not significantly associated with low gait speed (OR: 1.15, 95% CI: 0.70 1.76, p=0.645) or dynapenia (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 0.76–1.79, p=0.456). The association with frailty was significant in the unadjusted model (OR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.04–2.35, p=0.031), but lost significance after adjustment (OR: 1.50, 95% CI: 0.96–2.34, p=0.075). Conclusion: Hyperuricemia was not significantly associated with low gait speed or dynapenia. Although an association with frailty was observed, this weakened after adjustment for confounding factors. These results suggest that hyperuricemia may be a marker rather than a direct cause of frailty, possibly related to underlying cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms between hyperuricemia and physical function and to evaluate the effects of uric acid-lowering therapies on physical performance.Methods: This retrospective study included 526 women aged 60 years and older. Gait speed, handgrip strength and frailty status were assessed as part of a comprehensive geriatric examination. Hyperuricemia was defined as SUA levels ≥6 mg/dL. Binary logistic regression models adjusted for age, BMI, hypertension and depressive symptoms were used. Results: Hyperuricemia was not significantly associated with low gait speed (OR: 1.15, 95% CI: 0.70–1.76, p=0.645) or dynapenia (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 0.76–1.79, p=0.456). The association with frailty was significant in the unadjusted model (OR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.04–2.35, p=0.031), but lost significance after adjustment (OR: 1.50, 95% CI: 0.96–2.34, p=0.075). Conclusion: Hyperuricemia was not significantly associated with low gait speed or dynapenia. Although an association with frailty was observed, this weakened after adjustment for confounding factors. These results suggest that hyperuricemia may be a marker rather than a direct cause of frailty, possibly related to underlying cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms between hyperuricemia and physical function and to evaluate the effects of uric acid-lowering therapies on physical performance.
Keywords : Hiperürisemi, Kırılganlık, Kas Gücü, Fiziksel Performans, Yaşlı Bireyler

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