Children with High Uric Acid Levels Face Heightened Hypertension Risk

The results of a recent study published in the American Journal of Hypertension demonstrate that children with high levels of uric acid are more likely to develop high blood pressure than those with normal uric acid levels.

High blood concentrations of uric acid, a chemical produced during the breakdown of purine nucleotides, have been previously associated with gout, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. Recent evidence, however, has suggested that uric acid may also play a role in pediatric hypertension.

To investigate the possible link, researchers measured the uric acid levels, blood pressure, and anthropometric characteristics of 449 children at 3, 5, and 7 years of age. Based on the data collected, the research team determined that baseline uric acid levels at 3 years of age had a notable effect on blood pressure later in childhood, as the patients with high uric acid levels at both 3 and 5 years of age had the highest systolic blood pressure at 7 years of age.

The study authors noted this increased risk can be managed through appropriate intervention, and emphasized the importance of monitoring and maintaining uric acid levels throughout childhood.

“Many studies have shown that early-life health can affect adulthood,” said lead author Hyesook Park, MD, PhD, in a press release. “We think that along with childhood health monitoring, early intervention in childhood is the most effective way to prevent future disease.”