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Gout, a type of arthritis, is often linked to poor diet or excessive alcohol consumption. However, a new large-scale study has revealed that genetics plays a more significant role in the development of this condition.
For reference, gout is a complex form of arthritis that causes extreme pain and swelling in the joints, particularly affecting the knees, ankles, and fingers.
Gout develops when high levels of uric acid in the blood form sharp crystalline needles in the joints. When the body’s immune system begins to attack these crystals, it leads to significant pain and discomfort.
What Did the Researchers Discover?
An international team of scientists examined genetic data from 2.6 million people, of whom 120,295 reported suffering from common gout.
By comparing the genetic codes of those with gout to those without, researchers identified 377 specific DNA regions associated with the disease. Notably, 149 of these had never before been linked to gout, according to Science Alert.
While lifestyle and environmental factors certainly play a role in the development of gout, the study’s findings indicate that genetics often determines the likelihood of the disease. Researchers believe there may also be other undiscovered genetic connections yet to be identified.
Debunking the Myth of Patient Blame
“Gout is a chronic disease with a genetic basis and is not the fault of the patient. The myth that gout is caused by lifestyle or diet needs to be dispelled,” stated epidemiologist Tony Merriman from the University of Otago in New Zealand.
Researchers noted that genetics is crucial at every stage of this process. It influences the immune system’s ability to attack the crystals and how uric acid is transported within the body.
Currently, there are many available methods to combat gout. However, the study’s authors believe that biases regarding the disease’s origins may deter people from exploring new treatment options.
“This widespread myth causes shame for those with gout, leading some to silently suffer and avoid seeking medical advice for preventive medication that lowers uric acid levels in the blood and prevents pain,” Dr. Merriman explained.
It’s worth noting that the new research has provided scientists with more options for treatment strategies, particularly in managing the immune response to uric acid accumulation.
However, the study did have some limitations: most of the data was derived from individuals of European descent, and some records were based on self-reports of gout rather than clinical diagnoses. Nevertheless, researchers gained a significantly better understanding of this health issue that has plagued people for centuries.
“We hope that in the future, higher-quality and more accessible treatment methods will emerge,” Tony Merriman said. The results of the study were published in the journal Nature Genetics.
