EVALUATION OF THE IMPACT OF NUTRITIONAL EDUCATION ON THE EVOLUTION OF GOUT: THE CASE OF THE LA PROVIDENCE CLINIC IN NDJAMENA

Gout is a fairly common problem in middle-aged men. Despite the high prevalence of the condition, there are few clinical studies of gout patients in Chad. The management of gout is based on the treatment and prevention of very painful gout attacks. In general, treatments for gout attacks are not based on rigorous scientific data. The present study aims to contribute to the nutritional management of gout. We used socio-demographic and cultural characteristics of gout patients, patients knowledge of the aetiology and management of their disease before assessing the effect of nutrition education on disease progression. A total of 50 patients suffering from gout and attending the clinic La providence in NDjamena were included in the study from 20 June to 26 July 2016. Our study shows that environmental factors play a significant role in the occurrence of gout: overweight, regular alcohol consumption, diet rich in purines (red meat and offal in particular). The effectiveness of dietary advice such as avoiding purine-rich foods and increasing fluid intake (2 to 3 litres of water per day) has been demonstrated, but these measures are recommended. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption and to reduce body weight.