ABSTRACT
Hyperuricemia has long been known to be associated with cardiovascular disease, and it is particularly common in people with hypertension, metabolic syndrome, or kidney disease. Most authorities have viewed elevated uric acid as a secondary phenomenon that is either innocuous or perhaps even beneficial, since uric acid can be an antioxidant. However, recent experiments have challenged this viewpoint. In this paper we argue that uric acid is a true risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, we suggest that the recent increased intake in the American diet of fructose, which is a known cause of hyperuricemia, may be contributing to the current epidemic of obesity and diabetes.
Footnotes
↵* The author has indicated that he serves as a consultant to Scios and Tap Pharmaceuticals, is a member of the speakers bureau of Merck Pharmaceuticals, and is a board member of Nephronomics. His work is supported by NIH grants DK-52121, HL-68607, and HL-79352.
- Copyright © 2006 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. All Rights Reserved.
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