Hyperuricemia and Hypertension: Correlation, Mechanisms, and Clinical Implications – A Literature Review

Abstract

Hypertension is a condition characterized by elevated blood pressure, with systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg, commonly found in adults and the elderly. The global prevalence of hypertension continues to rise, with approximately 1.13 billion individuals affected worldwide, and it is projected to reach 1.5 billion by 2025. This condition is a leading cause of premature death, accounting for around 9.4 million deaths annually. One of the contributing risk factors for hypertension is hyperuricemia, which refers to elevated levels of uric acid in the blood. Several studies have shown that uric acid plays a role in the development of hypertension through various mechanisms, including endothelial dysfunction, increased vascular resistance, and activation of the renin-angiotensin system. The vasoconstriction caused by uric acid can directly raise blood pressure, while kidney microvascular damage worsens blood pressure regulation. Experimental studies also suggest that elevated uric acid levels can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress, which contribute to endothelial dysfunction and structural changes in blood vessels. Understanding the link between hyperuricemia and hypertension is important for developing more effective prevention and treatment strategies. Therefore, interventions aimed at reducing uric acid levels, such as lifestyle changes or pharmacological treatments, may offer a potential approach for managing hypertension.