Epidemiology of gout.

The incidence and prevalence of gout are rising, likely as a result of a changing pattern of risk factors. At-risk populations are growing, due to the fact that people are living longer. Longevity and current dietary and lifestyle choices have also contributed to increased rates of comorbidities associated with hyperuricemia and gout. The use of medications to treat such comorbidities also plays a role in some cases of gout. While dietary and lifestyle modification may be useful as adjunctive measures, such changes do not replace pharmacologic treatments for gout or associated comorbidities.