Serum uric acid levels in England and Scotland

A survey of serum uric acid levels in 766 subjects in England and 337 in Glasgow was carried out. There was no difference in the frequency distribution of uric acid or the mean levels in the two countries. A serum uric acid of 7 mg/100 ml or over was found in 7.2% of the men and 0.4% of the women. The previously described sex difference and association of serum uric acid with weight were confirmed. No association was found with social class. The suggestion of an increase in uric acid levels in the United Kingdom over the past 14 years is discussed.