This groundbreaking research analyzed genetic data from 2.6 million people, including 120,295 diagnosed with gout.
Gout is a painful form of arthritis that primarily affects the joints, causing severe pain and swelling, especially in the big toes, ankles, knees and fingers. Traditionally attributed to poor lifestyle choices and dietary habits, a recent study led by Professor Tony Merriman of the University of Otago has changed that perspective, highlighting the important role genes play in the development of gout. .
The study: A genetic perspective
The groundbreaking research analyzed genetic data from 2.6 million individuals, including 120,295 diagnosed with gout. This large study revealed the genetic basis of the disease, revealing that hereditary factors are more critical in the formation of gout than previously thought. The researchers identified a total of 377 genetic regions associated with gout, 149 of which had never been linked to the condition before.
Challenging the stigma around gout
Professor Tony Merriman, the lead author of the study, expressed optimism that this study could change the understanding of gout. In a press release, he noted: “This study debunked the idea that gout is linked to poor lifestyle habits or a poor diet—it is a condition influenced by genetic factors. »
This revelation is particularly important because there has long been a stigma associated with gout. Many people feel embarrassed and believe their condition is due to poor eating habits, leading to shame and reluctance to seek proper medical treatment. These attitudes may worsen the condition, making this study crucial for addressing both the medical and social aspects of gout.
The role of diet versus genetics
Although the study highlights genetic factors contributing to gout, it does not entirely dismiss the impact of diet. Poor eating habits, especially eating red meat and other foods high in purines, can trigger gout attacks. However, research suggests that the etiology of gout is more complex than simply diet-related. Gout formation is characterized by high levels of urates, the development of urate crystals in the joints, and the immune system’s response to these crystals, with genes playing a larger role in this complex process.
