Gout, a Recession, and the ADA

Often called the “disease of kings” because of its association with the rich foods and abundant alcohol once available only to aristocrats, gout is now attacking the middle-class with a vengeance. Though odd that gout would stage a comeback during a recession, it’s reach now extends to all classes because they are uniformly older and heavier, according to the New York Times. 

Gout is caused by the buildup of uric acid in the blood, which, as it turns out, isn’t caused only by expensive foods and booze, but also by various types of meat and fish, as well as beer and sugary soft drinks, sometimes recessionary staples. Genetics also play a part in this disease that was once thought extinct.

Because of gout’s historic association with gluttony, many people are reluctant to admit to the disease or seek treatment for it, despite the excruciating pain it causes. Now that uric acid is being linked to hypertension, heart disease and diabetes, gout is beginning to be considered a mainstream affliction.

In addition to the pain, gout victims develop disfiguring lumps of chalky white crystals, called tophi. The Times article includes the story of a gout-ridden Atlanta restaurant manager who was forced to quit his job after customers complained about the tophi on his hands, which oozed liquid resembling White-Out.

The gout comeback will make its way into the workplace. An employer may be able to dismiss an employee like the restaurant manager, but be careful. If an employee tells you his work is being adversely affected because he has the gout, there was a time when this disclosure might have resulted in a good laugh and the employee’s discharge.

Under the ADA Amendments Act, gout is probably a disability. That means possible employee protection and reasonable accommodation, not exactly a laughing matter.