Impaired Pulmonary Function Linked to Increased Gout Risk: Study

Researchers have found that reduced pulmonary function strongly increases the risk of developing gout. Pulmonary function is increasingly recognized as a vital component in metabolic diseases, but its connection to gout has remained unclear until now. A recent study was conducted by Zijan Kang and colleagues which was published in the journal BMC Medicine.
A total of 420,002 participants with pulmonary function testing results completely available in the study were analyzed. The propensity score matching (PSM) method was used to generate balanced comparison groups, and Cox regression was used to estimate the risk of gout in individuals with impaired pulmonary function. Mendelian randomization (MR) was applied to assess causal associations, and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was used to examine non-linear relationships between pulmonary function and gout incidence. Biomarkers influencing the observed associations were identified through mediation analysis.
Key Findings
Prevalence of Gout:
• Among individuals with PRISm, 6.31% had gout, compared to 6.26% in those with COPD and 3.45% in individuals with normal pulmonary function.
Risk of Gout:
• Adjusted analysis revealed that PRISm increased gout odds by 24% (OR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.17–1.31), while COPD raised odds by 14% (OR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.07–1.22).
• Longitudinal analysis confirmed a 32% increased risk of developing gout in individuals with impaired pulmonary function (HR = 1.32, 95% CI 1.24–1.40).
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.