Gout rising among people under 40, global study finds

A global study finds gout, a common inflammatory arthritis, is increasingly affecting people younger than 40. The analysis of Global Burden of Disease data from 1990 through 2021 across 204 countries shows gout prevalence and years lived with disability rising by 66%, while incidence climbed 62% in that period. In 2021, the 15- to 39-year-old group accounted for nearly 14% of new gout cases worldwide, and researchers project the number of young people with gout will continue to rise through 2035, even as per-capita rates may ease because of population growth.

Geographically, the burden varied by region. High-income regions registered higher gout burden, with high-income North America posting the highest rates. Men aged 35 to 39 carried the largest burden overall, while women tended to develop gout later in life, often linked to kidney dysfunction after menopause. The study authors cautioned that data quality gaps, especially in low-income settings, could affect global estimates.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when urate crystals accumulate in joints, driven by high levels of uric acid in the blood. It most often affects the big toe and can cause sudden, intense attacks of pain, swelling and tenderness. Urate crystals form when purines are broken down in the body, and purines come from certain foods such as red meat, organ meats and some seafood. Alcohol, particularly beer, and drinks sweetened with fruit sugar can raise uric acid levels.

Experts note that the overall number of gout cases is expected to increase globally due to population growth, even if rates per person stay the same or decline. Data quality remains a limitation for some countries, and researchers said closer monitoring is needed to fully track shifts in the disease burden.

Managing gout typically includes anti-inflammatory medications to treat flares and measures to lower uric acid levels. People should seek medical care for flare-ups, especially if a joint becomes hot and fever develops, which can signal infection. Untreated gout can lead to recurrent attacks, joint damage and, in some cases, kidney stones.

Experts also note that weight management and reducing intake of high-purine foods, beer and sugar-sweetened drinks may help lower risk. Men are more likely to develop gout than women, though risk rises in women after menopause. Public health surveillance of gout trends remains essential as populations age and dietary patterns shift worldwide.