An expanding waistline increases gout risk

The heavier you are, the greater your odds of getting the painful arthritic condition called gout – no matter your gender or race.

Obesity has long been considered a risk factor for gout. But new findings confirm that, the risk starts climbing when people are merely overweight, and more Australians are overweight these days.

Gout is a particularly painful form of arthritis that causes the joints to periodically become swollen, red and hot, mostly affecting the big toe, though it also strikes the feet, ankles, knees, hands and wrists.

We laugh about gout sometimes, but it’s a very painful and debilitating condition which can be controlled through better food options, and weight management.

(Arthritis Care & Research July 6th 2012)