Dual Smoking Linked to Higher Serum Uric Acid Levels

The popularity of e-cigarettes has been increasing in recent years, and as a result, the number of people who smoke both traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes has also risen. A recent study conducted in South Korea and published in PLOS ONE aimed to investigate the association between smoking behavior and serum uric acid (SUA) levels, as gout incidence is on the rise worldwide, and appropriate management of SUA levels and a healthy lifestyle may help prevent it.

The study analyzed data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, with a total sample of 27,013 participants (11,924 men and 15,089 women) divided into 4 groups based on smoking behavior: dual smokers, single smokers, ex-smokers, and non-smokers. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the association between smoking behavior and SUA levels.

“Compared to male non-smokers, male dual smokers had significantly higher [SUA] level,” the researchers noted. Similarly, in females, SUA levels were higher among single smokers than non-smokers (odds ratio [OR], 1.68; 95% CI, 1.25-2.25). Furthermore, the study found that higher SUA levels were more likely to be present in male dual smokers with a greater than 20 pack-year smoking habit (OR, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.06-3.18).

“Given these results,” the researchers wrote, “smoking is related to SUA, and dual and single smoking is harmful to health. These findings should provide the direction of research on the adverse effects of e-cigarettes and dual smoking in future studies and educate people regarding the risk.”

The study emphasizes the importance of properly managing SUA levels through smoking cessation. Smoking cessation can improve overall health and reduce the risk of developing gout and other related conditions. This study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the health benefits of smoking cessation and serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Source: PLOS ONE