Sex Differences in Health-related Quality of Life among Patients with Gout: A Comparative Study Using SF-36 and EuroQol-5D

Abstract

Background: Gout is traditionally considered a disease predominantly affecting men; however, its prevalence among women has increased considerably in recent years. Despite this trend, the impact of gout on women’s quality of life remains insufficiently investigated. Objective: To evaluate health-related quality of life in women with gout using the SF-36 and EQ-5D questionnaires and to compare the findings with those of male patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study included 202 patients with gout diagnosed according to the 2015 EULAR/ACR criteria. Group I comprised 102 women, and Group II comprised 100 men. Quality of life was assessed using the SF-36 and EQ-5D questionnaires. Correlation analysis was performed between quality-of-life indicators and clinical and laboratory parameters. Results: Women demonstrated significantly lower physical functioning, general health, social functioning, and mental health scores than men (p<0.05). Higher levels of pain, emotional limitations, anxiety/depression, serum uric acid, inflammatory markers, blood glucose, and the atherogenic index were associated with poorer quality-of-life outcomes. Significant correlations were identified between disease severity and deterioration in SF-36 and EQ-5D domains. Conclusion: Women with gout experience more pronounced physical, emotional, and social impairment than men. Disease severity, inflammatory activity, metabolic abnormalities, and pain contribute significantly to reduced quality of life. Comprehensive multidisciplinary management strategies are required to improve outcomes in women with gout.