Gout
A painful arthritic condition linked to high uric acid, where weight loss can significantly reduce the frequency of attacks.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Gout is a painful form of arthritis caused by uric acid crystals building up in the joints, often starting in the big toe. Being overweight increases uric acid levels in the body, and losing weight can significantly reduce gout attacks.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Gout is an inflammatory arthritis resulting from monosodium urate crystal deposition in joints, driven by hyperuricaemia (serum urate >6.8 mg/dL). Obesity is a major risk factor due to increased purine turnover, impaired renal urate excretion, and associated insulin resistance. Weight loss has been shown to reduce serum urate levels and the frequency of acute gout flares.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
If you suffer from gout, weight management is one of the most effective ways to reduce the frequency and severity of attacks. At Accord Medical, Dr Wang addresses gout as part of a comprehensive weight and metabolic health plan.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.