Gout is a heart attack risk factor for men and women, but the risk is higher for women with gout, according to a study published ahead of print in the Annals of the Rheumatic Disease. Gout is a form of arthritis that causes inflammation of the joints.
Researchers in British Columbia found that men with gout were 11% more likely to have a heart attack than men who did not have gout. This risk was much higher for women with gout, who were 39-41% more likely to have a heart attack than women without gout.
Gout occurs when uric acid build up in the system over, usually over a long period of time. The buildup occurs when you eat too many foods that contain purines, such as dried beans and liver. The uric acid buildup can build up in the system if you take too much in and the body does not eliminate the substance. Men are more likely than women to get gout. Drinking alcohol increases the risk of the arthritic condition.
In addition to increasing the risk of heart attack, gout can cause pain, permanent joint damage and permanent kidney damage.
Resources:
EurekAlert: BMI – British Medical Journal; Women with gout at greater risk of heart attack 7-Feb-2010
National Institute of Health
Written by Christine Nyholm
HULIQ.com
Comment and add to the story without registration, but keep the comments meaningful please. Links are not accepted.
