Education Preferences of People With Gout: Exploring Differences Between Indigenous and Nonindigenous Peoples from Rural and Urban Locations

Objective

Gout typically responds well to medications, but adherence might be improved by education that meets individuals’ needs in a way that is inclusive of their ethnicity and rurality. The aim of this study was to compare education preferences of Māori and New Zealand European (NZEuropean) individuals with gout, and of those living in rural or urban areas.

Methods

People with gout managed in primary care were recruited from 2 rural regions and 1 city within Aotearoa/New Zealand. Focus groups were held with 26 Māori and 42 NZEuropean participants (44 rural, 24 urban). Participants discussed education preferences for diet, medication, and ways of communicating. The nominal group technique was employed, whereby the group compiled a list of ideas and then participants individually ranked the 3 most important ideas for each topic.

Results

The most frequently prioritized ideas for the 3 topics were knowing one's own food triggers, knowing side effects of medications, and communicating via a general practitioner (GP) or specialist. More Māori participants prioritized natural remedies, easy to understand information, and communicating via television. More NZEuropean participants prioritized knowing the kinds of alcohol that trigger gout, communicating via GP/specialist, and receiving written information. More urban participants prioritized knowing to stay hydrated and medication doses as important information.

Conclusion

Māori and NZEuropean individuals with gout report different understandings and education preferences around personal triggers of gout, treatment options, and ways of receiving information about gout. Further research is required to develop ethnicity‐specific gout education resources internationally.