This year marks the 20th anniversary of Gout Awareness Day, a milestone occasion in the continued effort to enhance public awareness and understanding of gout. Gout impacts more than 12 million people across the United States; however, stigma, misinformation and coverage barriers are continuing to keep patients from accessing the treatment they need.
People often think about gout as just joint pain. In fact, it is a chronic, systemic disease and the most common form of inflammatory arthritis. It is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body that deposits around the joints, leading to swelling and intensely painful attacks. Left untreated, it can increase risks of cardiovascular complications such as stroke and heart attack, as well as chronic kidney disease. Many people also mistakenly attribute gout to poor diet and lifestyle choices alone. While diet and lifestyle can contribute to gout, there are a variety of potential factors that can lead to gout, including genetics.
Although gout impacts millions of people, the disease is still underrecognized, undertreated and stigmatized, making public education and increased awareness about gout still needed.
Less Stigma Means Better Care
The continued stigma around gout may keep patients from seeking the treatment and support they need. It is important to remember that gout is a chronic and systemic condition that can impact the whole body. While gout is not curable, it can be managed through a comprehensive approach that addresses both acute gout flares and the root causes of chronic gout. Working with a clinician to find the right treatment plan can lead to more successful disease management.
Broader awareness of the symptoms and causes of gout can also help patients recognize a possible diagnosis behind their pain. Armed with greater knowledge and support, patients may feel more confident speaking with their clinicians about their flares. For care partners, family members and the public, increased understanding can help reduce stigma while encouraging greater empathy and support for people living with gout.
Recognizing Gout as a Chronic Disease
Raising awareness is also important when it comes to ensuring access to treatment. Coverage barriers, like utilization management policies, continue to impact gout patients’ ability to access timely and affordable treatment.
Through patient stories and experiences, policymakers are better able to understand the serious consequences of what a delay in care means. This week, the Alliance for Gout Awareness hosted a Congressional briefing, bringing together patients, clinicians and advocates to help raise awareness about gout on Capitol Hill. The briefing highlighted the policies that support timely access for gout patients.
The bi-partisan co-chairs of the Congressional Arthritis Caucus are also helping to elevate the discussion by recognizing the importance of Gout Awareness Day this week. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) will be submitting an acknowledgement of the 20th Anniversary of Gout Awareness Day into the Congressional Record.
Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA-01) released a statement saying, “On the 20th Anniversary of Gout Awareness Day, it’s important to recognize the millions of Americans living with gout and the challenges this disease can bring to everyday life. Encouraging early diagnosis and supporting continued research are important steps toward improving patient quality of life.” He also shared that he is “proud to support the efforts that bring greater attention to arthritis-related diseases and the patients and families they impact across our nation.”
The 20th anniversary of Gout Awareness Day serves as an opportunity to continue raising awareness about gout, reflecting on how far the conversation has come and how much further it can go. Together, people can come together to empower patients and highlight the importance of managing gout.
