Although World Gout Awareness Day was marked on 22 May, awareness and support for people living with gout should continue well beyond one day — because gout doesn’t take a day off.
Do you have gout, or care for someone who does? You’re not alone. In Aotearoa New Zealand, it is estimated that more than 210,000 people live with gout, and it’s important to know that gout is not your fault.
Gout happens when there is too much uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a natural waste product made by the body and is normally removed through the kidneys and passed out in urine. For some people, the body either makes too much uric acid or, more commonly, the kidneys cannot remove it effectively. When levels stay too high, sharp crystals can form in and around the joints, causing extremely painful gout attacks.
While food and alcohol can play a small role, around 90% of uric acid levels are linked to your genes and how well your kidneys remove uric acid from the body. Many Māori and Pacific peoples have inherited genes that make it harder for the body to get rid of uric acid, which is why gout affects these communities more often and at younger ages.
The good news is that gout can be managed. The only way to remove gout crystals is through preventive uric acid-lowering medication taken every day, with a treatment goal of reducing uric acid levels below 0.36 mmol/L. Without treatment, gout can permanently damage joints and affect kidney health.
If gout flares are getting in the way of your daily life — spending time with whānau, work, exercise, or the things you enjoy — make an appointment with your GP. Ask what your uric acid level is and talk about starting preventive medication.
Need extra support? Give Arthritis Assist a call. Our team can help you better understand gout, answer your questions, and support you to take steps towards managing your health.
Throughout the year, Arthritis NZ will continue sharing information, support, and practical resources to help people better understand and manage gout.
Check out our helpful resources here:
Gout - how to manage it | Arthritis NZ
Gout and purines: should people with gout avoid foods… | Arthritis NZ
We Gout Your Back.pdf
