A recent study has revealed that the prevalence of gout is increasing on a daily basis in the UK. Traditionally, gout is connected to too much port and an unhealthy lifestyle. The analysis – based on 15 years of results – has shown that one in 40 people in the country is affected by this condition.
The disease especially affects people who are overweight and can be handled with a change of lifestyle. However, researchers in the UK have found that only a small number of people are able to access the necessary medication. The condition is one type of arthritis, which is caused by uric acid building up in the blood.
The body produces crystals of sodium urate, which can form inside joints and can cause a sharp and sudden pain, along with swelling and redness. It most commonly affects the big toe, but can also develop in any joint. Despite the fact that it was associated with ‘good living’ among the wealthy people, gout can affect anyone. The problem is more common among people who are struggling with extra pounds and also in those who have a problem of high blood pressure and diabetes.
Research showed that the rates were four times higher in men than in women across the entire period and the highest rates were found in Wales and north-east England.
Photo Credits: Telegraph
