A major study reveals an unknown cause for a common form of arthritis

The New Zealand researchers hope that their discovery can lead to better treatment options, especially aimed at preventing the accumulation of uric acid in the body. They believe that existing medicines can be used for this.

The research has some limitations.

It has been conducted mainly in people of European background and in some cases is based on self-report of symptoms rather than actual diagnosis.

Nevertheless, the researchers hope that their findings will provide much more insight into a disease that has plagued humans for centuries and lead to understanding that lifestyle is not the whole story.

People need to understand that certain dietary factors, such as eating red meat, can trigger gout attacks, but the main cause is high uric acid levels, crystals in the joints and an immune system ready to attack the crystals – all these processes are at play. genetics plays an important role,” Merriman said.