A new study led by Research Fellow Dr Samuela ‘Ofanoa at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, reveals that TikTok videos about gout frequently contain misleading and inconsistent information.
They fall short of clinical guidelines and potentially put millions at risk of poor disease management.
The research highlights the urgent need for evidence-based content; published in Rheumatology Advances in Practice by Oxford University Press, the study titled ‘Gout, TikTok and misleading information: A content analysis’, examined 116 TikTok videos under the search term “gout,” which had collectively amassed over 426 million views.
The analysis found much of the content was inaccurate.
“TikTok has great potential as a tool to raise awareness around health issues such as gout,” says Dr ‘Ofanoa.
“But our findings show that much of the content is inaccurate and reinforces stigma by framing gout as a personal choice. Health professionals and organizations need to utilize the opportunity that social media platforms present and create engaging, evidence-based content to counter misinformation.”
The analysis found that:
- 79% of videos discussed gout management, but most focused on dietary advice and herbal remedies, which have limited long-term effectiveness.
- Only two videos mentioned urate-lowering therapy (ULT)—the gold-standard treatment recommended by rheumatologists.
- 45% of videos addressed risk factors, overwhelmingly attributing gout to diet and lifestyle, while downplaying genetics, kidney function, and weight—key clinical determinants.
- Many videos promoted unverified supplements and “natural cures”, often using imagery of health professionals to boost credibility.
Significance for Pacific Communities
Gout excessively affects Pacific peoples in Aotearoa, yet stigma and misconceptions often prevent families from seeking timely care. Dr ‘Ofanoa emphasises that this research is about more than correcting misinformation - it’s about empowering communities and reframing the narrative:
“For Pacific peoples, gout is not simply a lifestyle disease. Our bodies have evolved over centuries as wayfinding, seafaring peoples—adapted for survival in oceanic environments. These genetic factors mean we process uric acid differently. When TikTok videos blame diet alone, it fuels shame and stigma. We need a culturally grounded education that explains science and supports families without judgment.”
Pacific peoples increasingly access media and information via digital platforms. The study highlights an urgent opportunity for public health strategies to leverage social media platforms like TikTok to improve understanding of gout and promote accurate, culturally responsive information—especially for younger audiences who increasingly turn to social media for health advice.
Gout affects an estimated 41 million people worldwide, with 7 million new cases diagnosed annually. Despite clear clinical guidelines, gout remains poorly controlled, largely due to gaps in awareness and adherence to effective treatments.
