Gout management needs science, not influencers: Pacific islanders cautioned against misleading advice from TikTok

By Pacific Island Times News Staff

Gout is not simply a lifestyle disease for Pacific islanders, according to a disease expert, who raised the flag on TikTok videos that spread misleading medical advice.

TikTok videos about gout fall short of clinical guidelines and evidence-based content, putting millions at risk of poor disease management, said Dr. Samuela ‘Ofanoa, a research fellow at the University of Auckland.

‘Ofanoa said several videos endorsing remedies with limited long-term efficacy overlooked the Pacific islanders’ unique genetic makeup.

Samuela ‘Ofanoa

“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," said ‘Ofanoa, who led the TikTok content study published in Rheumatology Advances in Practice by Oxford University Press.

Ofanoa noted that only two videos mentioned urate-lowering therapy, which he said is the gold-standard treatment recommended by rheumatologists.

The study—which analyzed 116 TikTok videos that collectively amassed over 426 million views—found that 79 percent of the content discussed gout management, focusing mainly on dietary advice and herbal remedies.

“When TikTok videos blame diet alone, it fuels shame and stigma,” ‘Ofanoa said. “We need culturally grounded education that explains the science and supports families without judgment.”

At least 45 percent of videos addressed risk factors, overwhelmingly attributing gout to diet and lifestyle, while downplaying genetics, kidney function and weight, which are key clinical determinants.

Ofanoa said framing gout as a personal choice reinforces stigma.

The study found several videos that promoted unverified supplements and “natural cures” often using imagery of health professionals to boost credibility.

“TikTok has great potential as a tool to raise awareness around health issues such as gout,” ‘Ofanoa said.

“Health professionals and organizations need to utilize the opportunity that social media platforms present and create engaging, evidence-based content to counter misinformation.”

In New Zealand, gout disproportionately affects Pacific islanders, yet stigma and misconceptions often prevent families from seeking timely care.

‘Ofanoa stressed that this research is about more than correcting misinformation, it’s about empowering communities and reframing the narrative.

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.

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.

Subscribe to

our monthly

digital edition