Lower Uric Acid Linked with Cognitive Dysfunction in the Elderly

Uric acid has been associated as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Recently, however, there is growing evidence that uric acid plays a role as antioxidant in the brain. In cognitive dysfunction, vascular and oxidative stress mechanisms play a role, but the link remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated the link between serum uric acid-levels and cognitive function in 62 elderly subjects. The statistical analysis was adjusted to age, sex and cardiovascular risk factors. Here, we found that lower serum uric acid levels are linked to cognitive dysfunction. In a Mexican population, higher levels of uric acid are associated with a decreased risk of dementia.