How common is gout?

Gout is more common in men than in women. It is most common in men over age 30.¹ In women, it is rare for gout to occur until after menopause.²

Gout often runs in families. It is especially common in Filipinos and Pacific Islanders.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.

Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH	Last Updated: July 11, 2008
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Stanford M. Shoor, MD - Rheumatology
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