Who Are More Likely to Be Affected by Gout?

Gout: A Metabolic Disease and Its Causes

Gout is a metabolic disorder commonly manifested by discomforting symptoms such as joint pain and swelling. Typically, individuals with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and obesity are more prone to developing gout.

I. Susceptible Causes

1. Hypertension: Prolonged alcohol consumption and excessive salt intake can lead to elevated blood pressure, which may trigger gout.
2. Hyperlipidemia: The presence of hyperlipidemia increases uric acid levels in the blood, thereby elevating the risk of gout.
3. Diabetes: Disturbances in glucose metabolism can cause abnormalities in protein and fat metabolism, affecting purine metabolism and predisposing individuals to gout.
4. Obesity: Excess weight or obesity can lead to the accumulation of fat in the body, potentially impeding metabolic processes and causing uric acid to accumulate in joints, thereby increasing the likelihood of gout.

II. Predisposing Factors

1. Genetic Factors: Gout exhibits a familial clustering tendency. If one or both parents have the disease, their offspring have a relatively higher risk of developing it.
2. Poor Dietary Habits: Frequent consumption of seafood, animal liver, beer, and a lack of weight control can increase the risk of gout flare-ups. Additionally, improper medication use, such as diuretics or anti-tuberculosis drugs, may exacerbate the condition.

It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, avoid high-purine foods, engage in regular physical activity, and undergo periodic medical check-ups to manage gout effectively.