Gout Risk Factors:
What is a risk factor for gout? A risk factor increases your chances of developing gout but it is not certain that you will develop the disease. A risk factor is not a direct cause of the disease but the risk factors are associated in some way with developing gout.Overweight Or Obesity:
Being overweight is a risk factor for developing gout. Being overweight can lead to excess uric acid production.Eating Purine-Rich Foods:
Eating purine-rich foods as part of your regular diet can be a risk factor for developing gout.Excessive Alcohol Intake:
Heavy or even moderate alcohol intake can lead to hyperuricemia.High Blood Pressure:
High blood pressure or hypertension may increase the risk for developing gout.Lead Poisoning:
Lead poisoning can increase the risk of developing gout and is considered a risk factor.Family History - Gender - Age:
Family history or genetics are risk factors for developing gout. Up to 18% of people with gout have a family history associated with gout. More men than women have gout. Women generally do not develop gout until they are postmenopausal. Adults develop gout more frequently than children.Abnormal Kidney Function:
Abnormal kidney function, resulting in low urine output, can increase the risk of developing gout.Certain Medications:
Certain medications can lead to hyperuricemia. Some of the drugs which increase the risk of developing gout include:Certain Medical Conditions:
Having certain medical conditions may increase the risk of developing gout. Diseases associated with an increased gout risk include:Related Resources
Sources: Risk Factors For Gout, Brigham and Women's Hospital Health Information; Risk Factors for Gouty Arthritis, MedicineNet; Risk Factors For Gout, WrongDiagnosis.com; Gout, Primer On The Rheumatic Diseases, Arthritis Foundation.
