There are several factors that could place you at an increased risk of suffering from gout. These include:
• Genetic predisposition for an abnormality in handling urate accounts for approximately half of all cases. A family history of gout can be a risk factor.
• Male sex in middle age
• High blood pressure
• Drugs: thiazide diuretics, aspirin, tuberculosis medication (pyrazinamide and ethambutol)
• Obesity or excessive weight gain, especially in youth
• Moderate to heavy alcohol intake
• Abnormal kidney function
• A western lifestyle
• Underlying diseases with a high turnover of cells (cancers – especially blood cancers and haemolytic anaemia)
Read: Cherries may ward off gout
The following conditions can trigger gout:
• Recent surgery
• Dehydration
• Joint injury
• Excessive dining
• Heavy alcohol intake
• Stress
• Change in diet
• Foods with a high protein content such as red meat, shell fish, legumes and soya
Read more:
Gout risk for overweight men
Previously reviewed byDr David Gotlieb, rheumatologist, MBChB FCP(SA), September 2004
Reviewed by Dr Ingrid Louw, rheumatologist, MBChB, MMED Int Med, (private practice), August 2011