Increased SUA Levels, Gout Associated With Increased Risk of Colorectal Cancer Risk

By Cailin Conner - Last Updated: December 7, 2023

The American Journal of Medical Sciences published a meta-analysis investigating the risk factors associated with colorectal cancer (CRC), specifically examining the relationship between serum uric acid (SUA) levels, gout, and the incidence of CRC. “Pathogenesis of CRC depends on multiple factors,” the investigators wrote. “Identifying risk factors for CRC may facilitate the early prevention of the disease.”

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The study, registered on PROSPERO, included comprehensive searches of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from their establishment to November 2022. The researchers employed a meta-analytical approach, calculating pooled relative risks (RR) with 95% CI to assess the impact of SUA or gout on CRC incidence. Additionally, a non-linear trend analysis was conducted to explore the nuanced relationship between SUA levels and CRC incidence.

Twelve studies with a total of 22 reports were eligible for inclusion. The results of the meta-analysis revealed a significant association between SUA levels and CRC incidence. Specifically, when comparing the highest (>7.0 mg/dL) and lowest SUA (<2.5 mg/dL) levels, the RR was found to be 1.35 (95% CI, 1.27-1.43; P<.001).

Moreover, the study explored the link between gout and CRC incidence. The meta-analysis demonstrated that individuals with gout had a higher risk of developing CRC, with an RR of 1.22 (95% CI, 1.08-1.36; P=.001).

The investigators called for further investigations into the precise mechanisms of the association between SUA, gout, and CRC.

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