The incidence of gout is soaring; 8.3 million Americans are estimated to be gout patients. 2
Gout Awareness Day is an opportunity for medical professionals to focus attention on this disease that affects so many, yet has little understanding by the public.

Gout, a form of arthritis, is caused by an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the body. Uric acid crystals can form in the joints when there are abnormally high levels of uric acid in the body. Gout is not only the most prevalent form of inflammatory arthritis, but also the most painful. Patients affected by gout flares have described the pain as akin to having the affected joint caught in a piece of machinery.

Gout is often tricky to diagnose because the symptoms of gout mimic those of several other conditions. Managing other conditions is extremely important in gout patients. Making changes to diet and lifestyle may not be enough for patients who also have health risks such as hypertension, obesity and smoking.

For more information about Gout Awareness Day and educational resources for patients and medical professionals, visit www.gouteducation.org. The new information videos, as well free patient brochures and fliers, are available to download from the website.

2 According to the most recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2007-2008