Patient-Friendly Explanation

Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystal build-up in joints. Carrying excess body weight raises uric acid levels in the blood and makes gout attacks more frequent and severe.

Clinical Definition

Obesity is a major independent risk factor for hyperuricaemia and gout due to increased purine turnover from expanded adipose tissue, insulin resistance reducing renal urate excretion, and adipose-derived pro-inflammatory cytokines exacerbating joint inflammation. Weight loss of 5-10% can significantly lower serum urate and reduce flare frequency.

Why It Matters

Weight management is a key non-pharmacological strategy for preventing and controlling gout, often reducing the need for long-term urate-lowering medication.