Association between urolithiasis and metabolic syndrome in the Aksu region of Xinjiang, China: A cross-sectional study

This study explores the association between adult urolithiasis and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Aksu region of Xinjiang. In the context of this cross-sectional analysis, we included 11,208 hospitalized patients aged 18 to 80 years from our hospital between June 1, 2023, and June 31, 2024. Urolithiasis was diagnosed according to the 2022 edition of the "Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Urological Diseases in China," the diagnostic criteria for MetS were based on the 2004 Chinese Diabetes Society standards. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the associations between MetS and urolithiasis. The prevalence of urolithiasis in this region was higher in males than in females (3.7% vs 1.5%, P < .01), and the Han Chinese participants had a higher prevalence (4.5% vs 1.7%, P < .01), of urolithiasis than other ethnic group participants. In all age groups, the peak prevalence was between the ages of 30 and 40 years (3.63%). MetS independently increased the likelihood of urolithiasis, with a 1.461 times higher prevalence rate in those with MetS (95% confidence interval: 1.060-2.013) than in those without MetS. Among the MetS components, hyperglycemia and hypertension were significant influencing factors for urolithiasis in this population. In male patients, lipid-related metabolic indicators also had a significant impact on the occurrence of urolithiasis. Metabolic syndrome or metabolic related indexes such as blood sugar, triglyceride, and diastolic blood pressure have significant influence on the occurrence of urolithiasis in Han patients. Urolithiasis was more common in Han Chinese males in this region, with a trend toward younger age. Metabolic syndrome was an important risk factor for urolithiasis. Our study suggests that those with MetS require vigilant monitoring for urolithiasis, and clinical procedures should incorporate screening for it.