Climate Change, Environmental Risk Factors, and Gout
Mary L Guan1,2, Tamiko R Katsumoto3, Michael Toprover1,2
1Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, New York University School of Medicine, New York.
Arthritis Care & Research
|October 20, 2025
Summary
Gout is rising globally, with environmental factors like air pollution and heavy metals contributing to risk. This review explores these environmental links and identifies areas needing further research.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Gout prevalence is increasing worldwide.
- While genetics and diet are known factors, environmental exposures are emerging as significant contributors to gout development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence linking environmental exposures to gout risk.
- To summarize potential pathophysiologic mechanisms.
- To identify knowledge gaps in environmental gout research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on environmental risk factors for gout.
- Analysis of pathophysiologic pathways connecting environmental exposures to gout.
- Identification of underexplored research areas.
Main Results:
- Environmental factors such as air pollution, ambient temperature, and heavy metal water contamination are linked to increased gout risk.
- Ultraprocessed food consumption is also highlighted as a dietary factor.
- The interplay between chronic kidney disease, gout, and climate change is noted.
Conclusions:
- Environmental factors play a significant role in the rising incidence of gout.
- Further research is needed to fully understand and mitigate these environmental risks.
- Addressing environmental exposures is crucial for public health strategies against gout.
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