Alcohol And Gout: Study Says Men At Higher Risk, Beer And Cider Most Harmful

When examining specific types of alcoholic beverages, beer, and cider were linked to the highest gout risk for both men and women. (Credit: Image by Freepik)

Alcohol consumption increases the risk of gout in both men and women, with men being more significantly affected, a recent study revealed.

Gout is a complex form of arthritis that causes inflammation, pain, and mobility issues in the joint. It is a condition characterized by elevated uric acid levels in the blood, leading to the formation of urate crystals in the joints. Patients may then experience sudden and severe pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the affected joints. In the U.S., about 4% of adults, translating to approximately 9.2 million people, are affected by gout.