Can Gout Be Triggered By Hereditary Factors? Here's What Doctors Say

JAKARTA - Gout is a form of arthritis that occurs due to the accumulation of uric acid in the blood. This condition can cause severe pain, swelling, and redness in the joints, especially the big toe.

Gout has often been associated with a diet high in purines, fructose, and saturated fats, commonly found in organ meats, red meat, and seafood. However, besides diet, hereditary factors can also contribute to gout.

Citing Summit Rheumatology, on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, since the 17th century, scientists have begun studying the link between gout and genetic factors. Modern research has now identified several genes that can increase a person's risk of developing gout, including ABCG2 and SLC2A9.

These two genes play a role in the urate transport system in the kidneys, the body's process of eliminating excess uric acid through urine. If someone inherits a gene that causes this system to work more slowly, uric acid can build up in the blood.

Thus, even if someone doesn't frequently consume foods high in purines, the risk of developing gout remains if they have the genetic predisposition.

"If your parents have a history of gout, you likely also carry the same gene. This isn't a personal fault, but rather a biological one," said Panico, Head of the Rheumatology Department at Summit.

However, while genetics plays a role in causing gout, lifestyle remains a factor that can exacerbate or trigger gout and shouldn't be ignored.

Excess weight, a diet high in purines, and excessive alcohol consumption have been shown to increase uric acid levels in the blood. Excess fat in the abdominal area, in particular, can trigger inflammation, which worsens gout symptoms.

Therefore, maintaining an ideal body weight and managing your diet are important steps, especially for those with a family history of gout.

"By regulating food intake and maintaining weight, the risk of gout attacks can be reduced, even for those who are genetically more susceptible," he said.

"Genes can't be changed, but lifestyle can. Knowing your family history is the first step in protecting yourself from future gout attacks," Panico concluded.