How Common Is Gout?

Gout is more common in men than in women. It is most common in men over age 30. In women, it is rare for gout to occur until after menopause.¹

Gout often runs in families. It is especially common in people from the Pacific islands.¹

Children are rarely diagnosed with gout. If a child does develop gout, the doctor will check to see whether the child has a problem present since birth (congenital) that is affecting metabolism.

References

Citations

1. Hellman DB, Imboden JB Jr (2010). Crystal deposition arthritis section of Arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders. In SJ McFee, MA Papadakis, eds., Current Medical Diagnosis and Treatment, 49th ed., pp. 729–736. New York: McGraw-Hill Medical.

Credits

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Nancy Ann Shadick, MD, MPH - Internal Medicine, Rheumatology
Last Revised	June 12, 2012