[Current epidemiology of gout]

Abstract

Gout is the most common inflammatory arthritis in adults nowadays. Prevalence has risen over the last decades. Patients over 65 years are disproportionally affected. A male/female ratio of 4:1 is diminishing after menopause (still 3:1). The relative risk of developing gout increases in a linear progression with the serum uric acid level. Other risk factors beside hyperuricemia are genetic predisposition, age, male gender, adipositas, lifestyle modification, chronic kidney disease and intake of diuretics. Many gout patients suffer from comorbidities. The metabolic syndrome is associated with gout. Two fifths of patients with gout had also chronic kidney disease. Reasons for the rise in prevalence are longevity, dietary habits and the high prevalence of patients with chronic kidney disease in the general population.