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Gout is a relatively common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. Its prevalence varies by region and population demographics. Generally, gout is more prevalent in developed countries and tends to be more common in men than in women, although the incidence in women increases after menopause.
According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States:
- The overall prevalence of gout among adults in the United States is approximately 3.9%.
- Among men, the prevalence of gout is higher, affecting around 5.9%.
- Among women, the prevalence of gout is lower but still significant, affecting around 2.0%.
These numbers indicate that gout is a relatively common condition, particularly among older adults and individuals with certain risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a diet high in purine-rich foods.
It’s important to note that the prevalence of gout may be underestimated due to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis, as well as variations in healthcare access and utilization across different populations. As awareness of gout and its risk factors increases, along with improvements in diagnostic techniques and healthcare delivery, the reported prevalence of gout may change over time.