Browsing by Author "Kaupunda, Cellina J."

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    Hyperuricemia among hypertensive patients attending cardiac clinics in Dar es Salaam
    (Kairuki University, 2024) Kaupunda, Cellina J.
    Background: Hypertension, characterized by systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg, is a significant global health concern. In sub-Saharan Africa, it poses a growing public health challenge. Elevated uric acid levels have been associated with an increased risk of hypertension. Hyperuricemia, defined as abnormally high serum uric acid (UA) levels, predominantly exists as urate ions. The thresholds for hyperuricemia are >360 μmol/L for females, >420 μmol/L for males, and 5.5 mg/dL for youth (<18 years old). However, in Tanzania, specifically in Dar es Salaam, the prevalence and impact of hyperuricemia among p hypertensive patients remain unreported. Early detection and appropriate intervention could serve as effective preventive measures against hyperuricemia. Objective: This study aims to assess the distribution of hyperuricemia among hypertensive patients attending cardiac clinics in Dar es Salaam. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among hypertensive patients attending cardiac clinics in Dar es Salaam. Structured questionnaires were used to record demographic data. Blood pressure and anthropometric measurements were taken using standard methods. Blood samples were collected for serum uric acid test. Results: In this study of 381 hypertensive patients from three regional referral hospitals, the majority were female (68.0%), married or cohabiting (60.4%), with no formal or primary education (70.9%), and from a lower income bracket (56.7%). The median age was 63 years, with a range of 28 to 88 years. The median duration since hypertension diagnosis was 3 years, with a BMI median of 26.1. Notably, 40.4% were overweight, and 29.7% were obese. Hyperuricemia was found in 42.5% of participants, with a median value of 335.4. A higher occurrence of elevated uric acid levels was observed in individuals over 45 years of age, nearly doubling from 30% to 49.7% in those aged 65 and above. Males exhibited a higher proportion of normal uric acid levels (68.9%) compared to females (52.1%). Additionally, a slight increase in normal uric acid levels was noted among the middle-income group versus the low-income group, and a significant association was found between alcohol consumption and higher uric acid levels. Individuals with Grade 1 hypertension had a higher incidence of elevated uric acid status compared to those with normal or high-normal blood pressure. The multivariable logistic regression has shown that being 65 or older, female, and consuming alcohol are all significant predictors of the hyperuricemia, with each group showing a higher adjusted odd ratio (AOR). Conclusion: The study highlights a significant correlation between hyperuricemia and factors such as age, gender, and alcohol consumption, family history of hypertension among hypertensive patients. Females, older individuals, and those who consume alcohol are particularly at risk for higher uric acid levels,which could have implications for managing hypertension. Recommendations: These findings suggest the need for targeted interventions and lifestyle modifications to address the risks associated with elevated uric acid levels in hypertensive populations.