Background: Gout is a common and complex form of arthritis that manifests through sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints, often due to high levels of uric acid in the blood. Despite its prevalence, public awareness and understanding of gout, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, remain limited. This study aims to assess the awareness and knowledge of gout among adults in District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, to address myths and enhance disease management.Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to May 2024 in District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. The study involved 400 adults, aged 18 and above, who had been residents of the district for at least 12 months. Data were collected using a structured Google form questionnaire, which included questions on socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge about gout. The questionnaire was pre-tested and validated by experts. Data analysis was performed using Epi Info V7 Software, with results presented in frequencies and percentages.Results: The study revealed that while 78.5% of participants had heard of gout, detailed knowledge of its symptoms, causes, prevention, and management was lacking. Only 64.5% were aware that gout could cause joint tenderness, and 62.0% knew that high uric acid levels could lead to gout. Knowledge about prevention strategies was limited, with only 52.0% recognizing the role of dietary changes, and 44.0% understanding the importance of maintaining a healthy weight. Overall, 24.5% of participants demonstrated very good knowledge, while 19.0% had poor knowledge of gout.Conclusion: The study highlights significant knowledge gaps regarding gout among the public in District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. These gaps suggest the need for targeted public health interventions to address myths and misconceptions, promote early diagnosis, and improve disease management. Enhancing public education on gout, particularly its modifiable risk factors, prevention, and treatment, is crucial for reducing the burden of this condition in the region.

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) stands among the leading causes of chronic disability in older adults, yet awareness regarding its early signs and lifestyle-based management remains insufficient in many low-resource settings. Particularly in rural and semi-urban populations, this knowledge gap contributes to delays in diagnosis and increased functional decline. This study evaluates awareness, misconceptions, and early management practices related to OA among elderly individuals in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh. Materials and Methods: A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2025 involving 410 participants aged 60 years and above. A validated questionnaire was used to assess socio-demographic variables, OA-related knowledge, and health behaviors. Scores were categorized as Very Good (≥80%), Good (60–79%), Fair (41–59%), and Poor (<40%). Statistical associations were tested using chi-square analysis. Results: Of the 410 participants, 71.2% demonstrated good to very good knowledge. While 83.6% accurately identified OA as a joint degenerative disorder, only 52.1% recognized exercise as a key non-pharmacological intervention. Beliefs that OA is an inevitable part of aging or only treatable through surgery were noted in a significant fraction. Lower educational attainment and rural residence were strongly associated with limited awareness. Conclusion: The findings emphasize moderate awareness with notable misconceptions, especially concerning early management and non-surgical options. Bridging this gap through targeted geriatric education, accessible physiotherapy programs, and culturally relevant outreach can reduce disability and promote healthy aging. Regular screening and community-led joint care initiatives must be integrated into rural public health programs for long-term impact.