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Cases of gout are seeing a steady increase of four percent annually, yet there is growing concern over social media’s tendency to incorrectly attribute the disease solely to poor dietary habits.
This painful form of arthritis, which leads to significant swelling in areas such as the big toes, feet, wrists, and ankles, currently impacts approximately 1.5 million people in the UK.
Historically referred to as “the disease of kings,” gout was famously endured by figures like Henry VIII and Queen Victoria, with many attributing it to excessive consumption of rich foods and alcohol.
However, recent studies indicate that gout can affect anyone. The condition arises when the body undergoes an inflammatory response to urate crystals that develop in and around the joints.
But research now shows that anyone can get the disease, which occurs when the body has an inflammatory reaction to urate crystals that form in and around joints.
It is diagnosed by measuring uric acid levels in the blood, and can be treated with long-term urate-lowering medications.
But millions could be given incorrect and unhelpful information about gout on social media platforms such as TikTok, a study by Auckland University in New Zealand has found.Â
It says more than 90 per cent of videos about the risk factors blame diet and lifestyle – failing to mention aspects such as genetics, kidney impairment and weight, which play a much greater role.
Gout is caused by a build-up needle-like urate (or uric acid) crystals in the joints causing inflammation and intense pain, often in the foot (file image)
Nearly 80 per cent of the clips examined by researchers also gave gout management advice, with many focusing on foods to avoid, or supplements and home remedies to take.
Fewer than three per cent of videos discussed medications as a gout management approach.
And just one per cent mentioned long-term urate -lowering therapy, which is considered the gold standard treatment for the condition among medical professionals.
Researchers concluded the social media advice studied lacked accurate information about gout-related risk factors and treatments, potentially leading to misconceptions about gout.