How is epidemiology of gout?

No stats, worldwide distribution, regional differences reflect environmental dietary and genetic differences. Prevalence is 5.9% men and 2% women (difference due to age of onset, estrogen has uricosic effect so gout is unusual in premenopausal women) Western countries affected 1-2% w/ prevalence with age 7% men >65 and 3% women over 85 uric acid elevated 10-20 years prior to gout.