Impact of Television Depictions of Gout on Perceptions of Illness: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

ObjectiveGout is a chronic disease that can be effectively managed with long‐term urate‐lowering therapy. However, it is frequently portrayed on screen as an acute disease caused by a poor diet that should be managed with lifestyle changes. This study was undertaken to investigate the impact of a fictional television depiction of gout on perceptions of the disease and its management.MethodsIn a randomized controlled single‐blind study, 200 members of the public watched either a 19‐minute commercial television comedy episode that depicted gout as an acute disease caused by poor diet and managed with lifestyle changes, or a control episode from the same television series that did not mention gout or other diseases. Participants completed a survey regarding their perceptions of gout, its likely causes, and management strategies.ResultsParticipants randomized to watch the gout‐related episode believed gout had greater consequences (mean score of 7.1 versus 6.2 on an 11‐point Likert scale; P < 0.001) and were more likely to rank the most important cause as poor eating habits compared to the control group (70% versus 38%; P < 0.001). They were also less likely to believe it is caused by genetic factors or chance. Participants watching the gout‐related episode believed a change in diet would be a more effective management strategy (9.0 versus 8.4; P = 0.004) and long‐term medication use would be less effective (6.9 versus 7.6; P = 0.007) compared to participants in the control group.ConclusionTelevision depictions of gout can perpetuate inaccurate beliefs regarding causes of the disease and underemphasize effective medical strategies required in chronic disease management.

The nurse's role in managing gout in the modern era: A systematic review of the literature

“…In Japan, it is common for patients to receive dietary guidance from a general physician after abnormal values are found during a physical examination ( 23 ). Enlightenment is provided through television health programs ( 24 ). The training of nurses with specialized knowledge is taking place, although in small numbers ( 25 ).…”