ASSOCIATION OF MEAT CONSUMPTION WITH SERUM URIC ACID LEVELS AMONG OBESE INDIVIDUALS

Abstract

Background: Obesity is a growing global health concern and is associated with several metabolic disorders, including hyperuricemia. Increased consumption of purine-rich foods, particularly meat, has been implicated in elevated serum uric acid levels. However, the relationship between meat consumption and serum uric acid among obese individuals remains insufficiently explored in the local population

Objectives: To determine the association between the frequency of meat consumption and serum uric acid levels among obese adults and to evaluate the correlation between body mass index (BMI) and serum uric acid levels.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 200 apparently obese adults (BMI >25.0 kg/m²) aged 18–40 years who attended the hospital outpatient department for routine health examinations. Demographic and anthropometric data were collected, and BMI was calculated for all participants. Serum uric acid levels were measured using standard laboratory methods. Hyperuricemia was defined as serum uric acid levels >7.0 mg/dL in males and >6.0 mg/dL in females. Meat consumption was categorized as once per week, 2–3 times per week, 4–5 times per week, and ≥5 times per week. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Pearson's correlation coefficient, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA with Tukey's post-hoc test, and Chi-square test were applied. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: Among the 200 participants, 110 (55.0%) were males and 90 (45.0%) were females. The mean serum uric acid level was 7.3 ± 1.4 mg/dL in males and 6.2 ± 1.3 mg/dL in females. Hyperuricemia was identified in 96 participants (48.0%), with a higher prevalence among males. The overall mean BMI was 29.1 ± 3.4 kg/m². Participants reporting more frequent meat consumption had significantly higher serum uric acid levels than those with lower meat intake. A significant positive correlation was observed between BMI and serum uric acid levels (r = 0.34, p = 0.001).

Conclusion: Frequent meat consumption is significantly associated with increased serum uric acid levels among obese adults. Furthermore, higher BMI is positively correlated with elevated serum uric acid concentrations. These findings highlight the importance of dietary modification and weight management as potential strategies for reducing the risk of hyperuricemia and its associated metabolic complications