Review of clinical spectrum of gastroesophageal reflux disease in a general population; a study from South-East Iran

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD] is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems worldwide

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The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical spectrum, prevalence, and some of the variables that are supposed to be the risk factors of this chronic disorder

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Methods: This population- based cross-sectional study was conducted in a one-stage randomized clustered sample of adult inhabitants in Kerman city in 2011-2012. A total of 2265 subjects with age range of 15-85 years were enrolled

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Face to face interview was performed for all the subjects. GERD was defined as at least weekly heart burn and/or acid regurgitation during the past year. Association of GERD with factors like demographic variables, medical condition, diet and life habits were analyzed

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Results: A total of 2265 subjects including 988 [43.8%] male and 1275 [56.3%] female patients were evaluated. The prevalence of GERD was 28%. The prevalence was higher in female patients and with aging. There was also a significant association between GERD and the following risk factors: lower educational level [p 0.000l], higher body mass index [p =003], presence of depression [p<0.000 1], and anxiety [p <0=0001]

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Conclusion: GERD as a common disorder in our region was seen more in elderly and female patients and was associated with some anthropometric, metabolic, medical conditions, and behavioral habits