Frequency and Associated Factors of Hyperuricemia in a University Hospital in Dakar, Senegal
TL;DR
The frequency of hyperuricemia and its distribution according to age, sex, and clinical indication at Fann University Hospital in Senegal was determined, highlighting the relevance of serum uric acid testing in the biological assessment of at-risk patients.
Abstract
Hyperuricemia is associated with gout, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic disorders, yet data remain limited in Senegal. This study aimed to determine the frequency of hyperuricemia and its distribution according to age, sex, and clinical indication at Fann University Hospital. This retrospective observational study was conducted from January 1 to December 31, 2025, and included patients undergoing serum uric acid testing. Hyperuricemia was defined as serum uric acid > 70 mg/L in men, > 60 mg/L in women, and > 40 mg/L in children. Associated factors were assessed using logistic regression. A total of 2,023 patients were included. The mean age was 58.5 years, and the male-to-female ratio was 0.71. The overall frequency of hyperuricemia was 29.7% and was significantly higher in men than in women (33.3% vs. 27.1%; OR = 1.34; 95% CI: 1.10-1.62; P = 0.003). Hyperuricemia increased significantly with age (OR = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.12-1.26; P < 0.001). The highest frequencies were observed in patients evaluated for cardiovascular disease (40.0%), renal disease (38.5%), and arterial hypertension (32.3%). Nearly one-third of patients had hyperuricemia, with higher frequencies in men, older individuals, and patients with cardiorenal conditions. These findings highlight the relevance of serum uric acid testing in the biological assessment of at-risk patients.