ady subsidised by PHARMAC. Gout arthritis is a life-long condition therefore treatment must be long term, like the treatment of high blood pressure or diabetes. The aim of treatment is to have people with gout reduce their uric acid level to the 0.36mmol/L uric acid target to prevent further gout attacks.
Impact of Gout Arthritis
Gout is more than an intensely painful condition that can lead to joint damage and prevents people from working and participating in their communities. People with gout are also more likely than those without gout to die at a younger age due to cardiovascular and renal complications. Research has shown that those with hyperuricaemia (too much uric acid in their blood) and chronic kidney disease, that are taking urate lowering medicine, have significantly reduced risk of cardiovascular events and renal failure, compared to those not taking the medication. Another study found that patients with gout and diabetes who were taking urate-lowering medicine had significantly lower risk of heart attacked or stroke.
In New Zealand, 40% of people with gout have diabetes and/or cardiovascular disease. Despite this, many patients consider gout to be a condition that merely requires analgesics (pain killers) to control and are not aware of the potential long-term consequences. Raising community awareness about gout is an important role for health professionals in primary care.
One of the challenges of prevention is supporting people to maintain their treatment, even when they are asymptomatic. While diet and lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight are helpful in reducing risks associated with gout (as with diabetes and cardiovascular disease), urate-lowering medication is usually required to prevent future episodes.
Benefits of treating gout arthritis:
- Prevention of gout arthritis attacks reduces the impact on health system spending in both primary and secondary care due to less frequent GP visits and reduced hospital admissions.
- Social and economic benefits due to higher social and work participation.
- Fewer people receiving a benefit through the benefits system.
Arthritis New Zealand is committed to addressing the health inequity in the management and treatment of gout arthritis for Māori and Pacific people. We have developed tailored education and support services in regions where funding has been provided, however many areas continue to have unmet need. Gout arthritis advice and information can also be accessed through our national 0800 663 463 phone line, Facebook and our website. Your Arthritis