Research Uncovers Gout’s Real Cause, Challenging Past Assumptions

People commonly link gout to excessive drinking or poor diet, but new research shows that genetics may play a larger role in developing this arthritic condition than previously believed.

Insights from a Global Study on Gout

In a recent study, an international team of researchers analyzed genetic information from 2.6 million individuals across 13 DNA data cohorts, including 120,295 people diagnosed with gout.

By analyzing and comparing the genetic codes of individuals with gout to those without, the researchers identified 377 distinct DNA regions associated with the condition—149 of which had never been linked to gout before.

Although lifestyle and environmental factors still contribute, the study highlights that genetics play a significant role in a person’s likelihood of developing gout. The researchers also believe that they may discover additional genetic connections.

“Gout is a Genetic Condition, Not Caused by Lifestyle or Diet”

Epidemiologist Tony Merriman from the University of Otago in New Zealand explained when the study was published last year that gout is a chronic condition with a genetic foundation and results not from the individual’s actions – we must debunk the misconception that gout links to lifestyle or diet.

Gout takes hold when there is an excess of uric acid in the blood, which forms sharp crystals in the joints. The immune system then attacks these crystals, resulting in intense pain and discomfort.

The researchers suggest that genetics plays a crucial role at every stage of this process. Specifically, it influences the immune system’s likelihood of attacking the crystals and how the body transports uric acid.

Gout can flare up intermittently, but treatments are available. The study’s authors believe that misconceptions may discourage people from seeking these treatments, which is a growing issue as cases of the condition continue to increase.

Merriman stated, “This common misconception leads to shame among individuals with gout, causing some to endure the pain quietly and avoid seeing a doctor for a preventive medication that reduces urate levels in the blood and helps prevent their discomfort.”

In addition to enhancing our understanding of the causes of gout, the study provides scientists with more avenues to explore for treatments, especially in managing the body’s immune response to the accumulation of uric acid. In fact, we can repurpose some existing medications to serve this purpose.

Limitations of the Study

The study does have some limitations: most of the data came from individuals of European descent, and some cases were based on self-reported gout rather than a clinical diagnosis. However, it provides a much clearer understanding of a health issue that has affected people for centuries.

“We hope that, over time, the new targets we’ve identified will lead to more effective and accessible treatments,” said Merriman. “Gout deserves more funding and greater attention within the healthcare system.”

Read the original article on: sciencealert

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