Serum Uric Acid Levels and Gout Risk Among Civil Servants in Abuja

Hyperuricaemia and gout represent emerging metabolic conditions with increasing prevalence among sedentary professional populations in urban Nigeria. This study determines serum uric acid levels and estimates gout risk among civil servants in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, North Central Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, with 200 participants recruited from three federal government ministries. Fasting venous blood samples were analysed for uric acid using the uricase-peroxidase colorimetric method. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose were also obtained. Dietary history, particularly purine-rich food and alcohol consumption, was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Medication use including diuretics and low-dose aspirin, which are known to elevate uric acid, was documented. The study explores associations between serum uric acid and body mass index, blood pressure, and fasting glucose to evaluate the clustering of metabolic risk in this occupational group. Findings are expected to indicate a significant burden of hyperuricaemia in male civil servants above 40 years of age. The study will contribute baseline data for gout management guidelines applicable to urban professional populations in Nigeria. Keywords: serum uric acid, hyperuricaemia, gout, civil servants, Abuja.