Increased risk of atrial fibrillation in young adults with gout: a nationwide cohort study
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By
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Eunsong Kang
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Kyung-Do Han
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Gwan Gyu Song
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Jae Hyun Jung
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Youngho Lee
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July 7, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Elevated Atrial Fibrillation Risk Among Young Adults with Gout: Findings from a Nationwide Cohort Analysis
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Gout |
| Key Mechanisms | Hyperuricemia promotes endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammation, contributing to atrial remodeling and increased AF risk. |
| Target Population | Young adults aged 20–39 years |
| Care Setting | Nationwide health insurance database analysis |
Key Highlights
- Gout is associated with a 44% increased risk of atrial fibrillation in young adults.
- Cumulative incidence of AF is significantly higher in individuals with gout.
- Stronger associations observed in non-obese individuals and those with chronic kidney disease.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Gout identified using ICD-10 code M10; AF identified using ICD-10 code I48.
Management
- Proactive cardiovascular risk assessment is recommended for young adults with gout.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Longitudinal tracking of health outcomes in individuals with gout is essential.
Risks
- Increased risk of AF may lead to long-term complications such as heart failure and stroke.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Young adults aged 20–39 years with gout
Gout may serve as a clinically relevant risk marker for atrial fibrillation.
Clinical Best Practices
- Consider screening for AF in young adults diagnosed with gout.
- Monitor cardiovascular health in patients with gout, especially those with additional risk factors.
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