TyG Index Exhibits Nonlinear Association with Hyperuricemia, states new study

While the epidemiological risk factors of metabolic diseases linked to hyperuricemia are well-documented, there is limited evidence regarding the nonlinear relationship between the TyG index and hyperuricemia. Hyperuricemia, characterized by high levels of uric acid in the blood, is a known risk factor for various metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The TyG index, a reliable surrogate marker for insulin resistance, is computed as Ln [triglycerides (mg/dL) × fasting glucose (mg/dL)/2].

This cross-sectional study analyzed data from NHANES collected between 2011 and 2018, including 8572 participants. The primary outcome was the presence of hyperuricemia. Researchers employed weighted multiple logistic regression, subgroup analysis, generalized additive models, smooth fitting curves, and two-piecewise linear regression models to explore the association between the TyG index and hyperuricemia.

• The study revealed a nonlinear and reverse U-shaped association between the TyG index and hyperuricemia, with an inflection point at a TyG index of 9.69.

• In the regression model adjusting for all confounding variables, the odds ratio (OR) for the association between TyG and hyperuricemia was 2.34 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.70-3.21).

• The OR (95% CI) before the inflection point was 2.64 (2.12-3.28), indicating a strong positive association.

• However, beyond the inflection point, the OR significantly decreased to 0.32 (0.11-0.98).

• Additionally, significant interactions were observed in analyses stratified by gender, BMI, hypertension, and diabetes.

The findings highlight a complex relationship between the TyG index and hyperuricemia. Initially, higher TyG index values are strongly associated with an increased risk of hyperuricemia. However, after reaching an inflection point, further increases in the TyG index correlate with a reduced risk. This reverse U-shaped relationship underscores the importance of considering nonlinear dynamics in metabolic risk assessments.

This study concludes that there is a strong positive connection between the TyG index and hyperuricemia up to a certain threshold, beyond which the relationship reverses. These findings necessitate further prospective studies to validate and understand the underlying mechanisms. Understanding this nonlinear relationship can aid in better risk stratification and management of hyperuricemia in clinical practice.

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