Prevalence and Associated Factors of Hyperuricemia Among Hypertensive Patients at Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania

Background : Hyperuricemia is increasingly recognized as an independent risk factor for hypertension and related cardiovascular outcomes. However, little is known about its burden among hypertensive populations in Tanzania. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 311 adults with hypertension attending the outpatient clinic at Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza. Data on sociodemographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics were collected using a structured questionnaire. Serum uric acid, lipid profile, and renal function were measured. Hyperuricemia was defined as serum uric acid >450 μmol/L in men and >360 μmol/L in women. Logistic regression was used to identify associated factors. Results: The prevalence of hyperuricemia was 59.8% (186/311). In multivariable analysis, hyperuricemia was independently associated with elevated body mass index (OR 2.96, 95% CI 1.40–6.25), systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg (OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.18–3.16), dyslipidemia (OR 1.71, 95% CI 1.03–2.85), and reduced glomerular filtration rate (OR 2.77, 95% CI 1.21–6.30). Use of calcium channel blockers was protective (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.34–0.90). Conclusion: Hyperuricemia is highly prevalent among hypertensive patients in Tanzania and is associated with obesity, dyslipidemia, uncontrolled systolic blood pressure, and impaired renal function. Routine screening and consideration of calcium channel blockers in hypertensive management may help reduce cardiovascular risk.