The association between serum copper levels and hyperuricemia in adolescents: an observational study

Hyperuricemia has been strongly associated with the risk of gout and metabolic syndrome. Serum copper may play a significant role in uric acid metabolism and the development of hyperuricemia. However, high-quality studies investigating the association between serum copper levels and the prevalence of hyperuricemia in adolescent populations remain scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum copper levels and the prevalence of hyperuricemia in a nationally representative sample of adolescents.

Data were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2011 and 2016, including a nationally representative sample of 1,034 adolescents aged 12 to 19 years. Serum copper concentrations and serum uric acid levels were measured through standardized laboratory procedures. Hyperuricemia was defined using sex-specific serum uric acid thresholds according to pubertal stage. The association between serum copper levels and the prevalence of hyperuricemia was assessed using multivariable logistic regression models, interaction analyses, and smoothed curve fitting to explore potential nonlinear relationships.

Among the study population, 139 participants (13.44%) were identified with hyperuricemia. Except for the unadjusted model, a significant positive association was observed between serum copper levels and the prevalence of hyperuricemia. After controlling for all relevant confounders, each 1-unit increase in serum copper concentration was associated with a 5% higher prevalence of hyperuricemia (OR: 1.05, 95% CI: 1.00-1.10). This association remained consistent and statistically significant across various demographic and health-related subgroups.

This study identified a positive association between serum copper levels and the prevalence of hyperuricemia in adolescents, suggesting that elevated serum copper may serve as a potential risk factor. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring serum copper levels as part of hyperuricemia prevention and management strategies in youth. Nonetheless, longitudinal studies are warranted to validate these associations and explore the underlying mechanisms.