Are Gout Patients Really Smarter? Doctor Explains the Truth Behind the Claim

Misconception: “Gout is a mild disease”

Ryuichi Hamaya (42) of the comedy duo Kamaitachi, who has a history of gout, sparked discussion on the December 3 broadcast of the variety show “Kore Yodan Nandesukedo” (ABC TV). Neuroscientist Nobuko Nakano commented on Hamaya:

“People with gout are smarter.”

“The substance that causes gout, uric acid, has a structure almost identical to caffeine. It’s known to have neuroprotective effects. Comparing UK Mensa members to the general UK population, gout is three times more common among Mensa members.”

The studio erupted in excitement, and the clip quickly spread across social media.

Uric acid does have antioxidant properties, and some research has explored links to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s. Some have suggested that people with lower uric acid levels may have a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s.

However, Dr. Kazutoshi Kameda, director of Sapporo Central Orthopedic Clinic, clarified:

“Neuroprotective effects refer to the potential to slow damage to nerve cells caused by disease or aging. This concerns disease progression, not increased intelligence or IQ.”

He emphasized that being smart generally refers to intellectual abilities such as comprehension, judgment, and learning capacity, which is a separate concept from neuroprotection.

Currently, there is no clinically reliable evidence directly linking uric acid levels to intelligence or IQ. Dr. Kameda warned:

“If the misconception spreads that gout happens to smart people or that it’s somehow a beneficial condition, the real dangers of the disease may be underestimated.”

Gout is a clearly defined disease in which uric acid crystallizes in the blood and deposits in the joints, causing intense inflammation and pain. The Japanese Society of Gout and Nucleic Acid Metabolism guidelines classify it as a lifestyle-related disease that requires ongoing treatment and management.

Risks of neglect

The negative effects of high uric acid levels on the body are not limited to gout attacks. Even during asymptomatic periods, risks may be progressing within the body.

“Repeated gout attacks can lead to chronic arthritis and joint deformities. Just because you can carry on with daily life doesn’t mean everything is fine.

Uric acid is excreted through the kidneys, so accumulated burden can lead to uric acid stones or chronic kidney disease. Numerous studies have shown that hyperuricemia is associated with myocardial infarction, stroke, and high blood pressure. Although often thought of as a joint disease, it is actually a systemic condition that affects blood vessels and organs.

Underestimating gout can cause missed opportunities for prevention and early treatment. Proper prevention, treatment if necessary, and management of uric acid levels are essential for protecting future health.”

On television, a medium seen by many, medical topics can easily take on a life of their own and cause misunderstandings. Hamaya himself has publicly stated that neglecting his gout led to attacks two to three times a year, interfering with his work.

Because celebrities and public figures have significant influence, careful wording based on evidence is essential. Even topics consumed alongside humor should not make us lose sight of the underlying health risks.