A global study has found a significant increase in gout cases among individuals under 40, with rates rising 66% from 1990 to 2021 across 204 countries.
A recent global study has revealed a concerning trend: the incidence of gout among young people aged 15 to 39 has surged dramatically, increasing by 66% from 1990 to 2021. Researchers from China conducted the study, which highlights the growing prevalence of this inflammatory arthritis condition among younger populations.
The findings, published in the journal Joint Bone Spine, analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) project, which encompasses statistics from 204 countries over a 30-year period. The study focused on various metrics related to gout, including prevalence, incidence, and years lived with disability, and it noted a global upward trend across all three categories.
According to the study, both the prevalence of gout and the years lived with disability increased by 66%, while the incidence of new cases rose by 62%. By 2021, individuals aged 15 to 39 accounted for nearly 14% of all new gout cases worldwide. Notably, men aged 35 to 39 and individuals in high-income regions bore the highest burden of the disease, with high-income North America reporting the highest rates.
The study also indicated that men tend to experience more years living with gout, often linked to a higher body mass index (BMI). In contrast, women were found to develop the condition more frequently due to kidney dysfunction. Despite the anticipated rise in total cases globally due to population growth, researchers project that the rates per population may actually decline.
One limitation acknowledged by the researchers is the quality of data, particularly in low-income settings, which may affect the overall findings of the GBD data.
Gout is characterized by sudden and severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints, most commonly affecting the big toe. It occurs when urate crystals accumulate in the joints, a process triggered by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are found in certain foods such as red meat, organ meats, and some types of seafood, including anchovies, sardines, and tuna. Additionally, alcoholic beverages, particularly beer, and drinks sweetened with fructose can contribute to increased uric acid levels.
Under normal circumstances, uric acid dissolves in the blood and is excreted through the kidneys into urine. However, an imbalance in uric acid production or elimination can lead to the formation of sharp, needle-like urate crystals, resulting in pain, inflammation, and swelling in the affected joints or surrounding tissues.
Several risk factors for gout have been identified, including a diet high in purine-rich foods and obesity, which can lead to increased uric acid production and hinder the kidneys’ ability to eliminate it. Other conditions, such as untreated high blood pressure, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and heart and kidney diseases, can also elevate the risk of developing gout. A family history of the condition further increases susceptibility, and while men are generally more prone to gout, women often experience symptoms after menopause due to lower uric acid levels.
Experts warn that untreated gout can lead to worsening pain and joint damage, as well as more severe complications, including recurrent gout attacks, advanced gout, and kidney stones. The Mayo Clinic advises individuals to seek immediate medical attention if they experience fever or if a joint becomes hot and inflamed, as these may be signs of infection. Anti-inflammatory medications can be effective in managing gout flares and related complications.
As the study indicates, the rising incidence of gout among younger populations is a significant public health concern that warrants attention and further research. The findings underscore the need for increased awareness and preventive measures to address this growing issue.
For more information, refer to the study published in Joint Bone Spine.