Points of Interest About Gout:

Gout was once referred to as "the disease of kings" because it was thought to be rooted in overindulgence in the food and drink that only the rich could afford.
Gout is strongly associated with obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia.
Gout seems to run in families, indicating a genetic aspect.

Risk factors for gout include: obesity or weight gain, heavy alcohol ingestion, high blood pressure, abnormal kidney function, and hypothyroidism.
Other events which can precipitate a gout attack include taking certain medications, dehydration, fever, joint injury, and recent surgery.