IMPACT OF HEARTBURN AND REGURGITATION ON INDIVIDUALS' WELL-BEING IN THE GENERAL POPULATION: A BRAZILIAN NATIONAL SURVEY.

BACKGROUND: Heartburn and acid regurgitation are typical symptoms usually associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is one of the gastrointestinal diagnosis with higher prevalence worldwide, significantly impairing patients' quality of life. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of GERD-related symptoms in the Brazilian urban population. METHODS: National telephone survey with community-dwelling Brazilian individuals. Self-reported prevalence and frequency of symptoms (heartburn / regurgitation) were assessed. Individuals rated the impact of symptoms in their general well-being using a numeric scale from 1 to 10 (1 = no impact; 10 = very intense, preventing the person to eat and perform daily routine activities). Descriptive and bivariate statistical analyses were performed. RESULTS: The final sample was comprised of 1,773 subjects, 935 (52.7%) females, an average of 40 years old. The prevalence of heartburn and regurgitation in the past 6 months was 26.2% (n=466) and 11.0% (n=196), respectively. Women presented higher prevalence (heartburn n=266, 28.5% and regurgitation n=119, 12.7%) than men (n=200, 23.1% and n=78, 8.9%, respectively) (P<0.05). Heartburn in the past week was reported by 175 individuals (9.8%), while regurgitation episodes by 67 (3.8%). Absence of impact of the symptom in the overall well-being was observed for 82 subjects (17.6%) with heartburn and 18 individuals (9.2%) with regurgitation. Very intense impact was reported by 46 subjects (9.8%) with heartburn and 41 (20.9%) with regurgitation. Women's well-being was more affected than men's (mean score 5.45 vs 4.71, P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Heartburn and regurgitation were frequent symptoms, women with higher prevalence. These symptoms led to a substantial impact on individuals' well-being, women being more affected.

Impacto da pirose e regurgitação no bem-estar de indivíduos da população geral: um inquérito nacional brasileiro / Impact of heartburn and regurgitation on individuals' well-being in the general population: a brazilian national survey

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Heartburn and acid regurgitation are typical symptoms usually associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is one of the gastrointestinal diagnosis with higher prevalence worldwide, significantly impairing patients' quality of life. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of GERD-related symptoms in the Brazilian urban population. METHODS: National telephone survey with community-dwelling Brazilian individuals. Self-reported prevalence and frequency of symptoms (heartburn / regurgitation) were assessed. Individuals rated the impact of symptoms in their general well-being using a numeric scale from 1 to 10 (1 = no impact; 10 = very intense, preventing the person to eat and perform daily routine activities). Descriptive and bivariate statistical analyses were performed. RESULTS: The final sample was comprised of 1,773 subjects, 935 (52.7%) females, an average of 40 years old. The prevalence of heartburn and regurgitation in the past 6 months was 26.2% (n=466) and 11.0% (n=196), respectively. Women presented higher prevalence (heartburn n=266, 28.5% and regurgitation n=119, 12.7%) than men (n=200, 23.1% and n=78, 8.9%, respectively) (P<0.05). Heartburn in the past week was reported by 175 individuals (9.8%), while regurgitation episodes by 67 (3.8%). Absence of impact of the symptom in the overall well-being was observed for 82 subjects (17.6%) with heartburn and 18 individuals (9.2%) with regurgitation. Very intense impact was reported by 46 subjects (9.8%) with heartburn and 41 (20.9%) with regurgitation. Women's well-being was more affected than men's (mean score 5.45 vs 4.71, P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Heartburn and regurgitation were frequent symptoms, women with higher prevalence. These symptoms led to a substantial impact on individuals' well-being, women being more affected.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Pirose e regurgitação ácida são sintomas típicos usualmente relacionados à doença do refluxo gastroesofágico (DRGE). A DRGE é um dos diagnósticos gastrointestinais com maior prevalência mundial, afetando significativamente a qualidade de vida dos pacientes. OBJETIVO: Analisar o impacto de sintomas relacionados à DRGE em uma amostra da população brasileira urbana. MÉTODOS: Inquérito nacional via telefone com indivíduos brasileiros em contexto comunitário. O inquérito foi conduzido entre 6 de agosto e 12 de setembro de 2018. A prevalência autorrelatada e a frequência dos sintomas foram avaliadas. Os respondentes classificaram o impacto dos sintomas no seu bem-estar geral utilizando uma escala numérica de 1 a 10 (1 = ausência de impacto; 10 = impacto muito grave, impedindo a pessoa de comer ou realizar atividades da vida diária). Análises estatísticas descritivas e bivariadas foram conduzidas. RESULTADOS: A amostra final foi constituída por 1.773 indivíduos, 935 (52,7%) mulheres, com idade média de 40 anos. A prevalência de pirose e regurgitação nos últimos 6 meses foi de 26,2% (n=466) e 11,0% (n=196), respectivamente. Sexo feminino (pirose n=266, 28,5% e regurgitação n=119, 12,7%) apresentou prevalência mais alta do que o masculino (n=200, 23,1% e n=78, 8,9%, respectivamente) (P<0,05). Pirose na última semana foi relatada por 175 indivíduos (9,8%), enquanto episódios de regurgitação por 67 (3,8%). Ausência de impacto dos sintomas no bem-estar geral dos indivíduos foi observada para 82 respondentes (17,6%) com pirose e 18 (9,2%) daqueles com regurgitação. Impacto muito grave foi reportado por 46 (9,8%) indivíduos com pirose e 41 (20,9%) com regurgitação. Sexo feminino foi mais afetado pelos sintomas do que o masculino. CONCLUSÃO: Pirose e regurgitação foram bastante frequentes sendo o sexo feminino mais afetado. Tais sintomas levaram a impacto no bem-estar dos indivíduos, com maior prejuízo para mulheres.

Prevalence of non-obstructive dysphagia in patients with heartburn and regurgitation.

OBJECTIVE: Heartburn and regurgitation are the most common gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, and dysphagia could be a possible symptom. This investigation aimed to evaluate the prevalence of non-obstructive dysphagia in patients with heartburn and regurgitation. METHODS: A total of 147 patients (age, 20-70 years; women, 72%) complaining of heartburn and regurgitation, without esophageal stricture, previous esophageal surgery, or other diseases, were evaluated. Twenty-seven patients had esophagitis. The Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10) was employed to screen for dysphagia; EAT-10 is composed of 10 items, and the patients rate each item from 0 to 4 (0, no problems; 4, most severe symptom). Results of the 147 patients were compared with those of 417 healthy volunteers (women, 62%; control group) aged 20-68 years. RESULTS: In the control group, only two (0.5%) had an EAT-10 score ≥5, which was chosen as the threshold to define dysphagia. EAT-10 scores ≥5 were found in 71 (48.3%) patients and in 55% of the patients with esophagitis and 47% of the patients without esophagitis. This finding indicates a relatively higher prevalence of perceived dysphagia in patients with heartburn and regurgitation and in patients with esophagitis. We also found a positive correlation between EAT-10 scores and the severity of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms based on the Velanovich scale. CONCLUSION: In patients with heartburn and regurgitation symptoms, the prevalence of dysphagia was at least 48%, and has a positive correlation with the overall symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux.

Prevalence of non-obstructive dysphagia in patients with heartburn and regurgitation

OBJECTIVE: Heartburn and regurgitation are the most common gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, and dysphagia could be a possible symptom. This investigation aimed to evaluate the prevalence of non-obstructive dysphagia in patients with heartburn and regurgitation. METHODS: A total of 147 patients (age, 20-70 years; women, 72%) complaining of heartburn and regurgitation, without esophageal stricture, previous esophageal surgery, or other diseases, were evaluated. Twenty-seven patients had esophagitis. The Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10) was employed to screen for dysphagia; EAT-10 is composed of 10 items, and the patients rate each item from 0 to 4 (0, no problems; 4, most severe symptom). Results of the 147 patients were compared with those of 417 healthy volunteers (women, 62%; control group) aged 20-68 years. RESULTS: In the control group, only two (0.5%) had an EAT-10 score ≥5, which was chosen as the threshold to define dysphagia. EAT-10 scores ≥5 were found in 71 (48.3%) patients and in 55% of the patients with esophagitis and 47% of the patients without esophagitis. This finding indicates a relatively higher prevalence of perceived dysphagia in patients with heartburn and regurgitation and in patients with esophagitis. We also found a positive correlation between EAT-10 scores and the severity of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms based on the Velanovich scale. CONCLUSION: In patients with heartburn and regurgitation symptoms, the prevalence of dysphagia was at least 48%, and has a positive correlation with the overall symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux.

Prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders in adults with systemic lupus erythematosus.

Objective (a) to assess the prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in female Mexican systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients using the Rome III criteria and (b) to examine the effect of disease duration on FGID prevalence. Methods Female SLE outpatients aged ≥18 years with no organic gastrointestinal disorder were included. Participants were invited to upper gastrointestinal endoscopy screening and a faecal immunochemical test. FGID symptoms were evaluated using the Rome III questionnaire. Results Eighty-six SLE patients with median age of 45 (interquartile range 34-54) years were included. At least one FGID was found in 76.7% (66/88) of patients with SLE. The most prevalent domains of FGID diagnosed were functional oesophageal, gastroduodenal disorders and bowel disorders, of which functional dyspepsia (72.7%), functional heartburn (68.1%) and bloating (63.8%) were the most frequent. Fifty-nine per cent of patients had overlapping FGIDs. The most prevalent overlap was the combination of functional dyspepsia and functional heartburn. Patients with longer disease duration had a higher prevalence of FGID than those with shorter disease duration. Conclusions There was a high prevalence of FGIDs in Mexican SLE women with low disease activity. Overlapping FGIDs were frequent. Longer disease duration may be associated with FGIDs in SLE patients.

Prevalence of dyspeptic symptoms and heartburn of adults in Belo Horizonte, Brazil / Prevalência de sintomas dispépticos e de pirose em uma população de adultos em Belo Horizonte, Brasil

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Medical literature has shown dyspepsia and heartburn-related symptoms occur among 15% to 40% of the population. These symptoms can occur at any age and are more prevalent in women. OBJECTIVE Investigate the prevalence of dyspeptic symptoms and heartburn among individuals over 18. METHODS Individuals over 18 were randomly selected in public venues in Belo Horizonte/MG to participate. A standardized questionnaire that included questions related to social-demographic characteristics, eating habits, digestive symptoms, medical appointments, medications, exams, previous surgeries and comorbidities was applied. A questionnaire about functional dyspepsia diagnosis (Rome III) was also applied. RESULTS A total of 548 individuals were interviewed. Among these, 58.4% were women, 59.3% were white, 55.9% were single and the average age was 36 years. Within this group, 376 individuals (68.6%) declared to have some symptom and/or use medication to relieve dyspepsia symptoms, and for these patients were applied the Rome III questionnaire. Based on the diagnostic criteria for the questionnaire proposed by the Rome III consensus, the symptom of postprandial fullness was reported by 6.7% of the individuals, early satiety (3.5%) and epigastric pain (10.6%). The overlap of these symptoms was very frequent. The prevalence of functional dyspepsia was 10.6% (postprandial discomfort syndrome (8.2%) and epigastric pain syndrome (2.4%). Among all participants, 52.5% reported heartburn, and 11.1% presented this symptom at least once a week. The most used drug was omeprazole. CONCLUSION The prevalence of dyspeptic symptoms and heartburn among a Brazilian adult urban population is similar to those described in other countries.

RESUMO CONTEXTO Tem sido relatado que cerca de 15% a 40% da população geral apresenta alguma queixa dispéptica e/ou pirose. Os sintomas dispépticos podem surgir em qualquer idade e são mais prevalentes no sexo feminino. OBJETIVO Investigar a prevalência de sintomas dispépticos e pirose em indivíduos com idade superior a 18 anos. MÉTODOS Foram selecionados aleatoriamente indivíduos com idade superior a 18 anos, entrevistados em praças públicas de Belo Horizonte/MG, por meio de um questionário que abordou características sócio-demográficas, questões relacionadas aos hábitos alimentares, sintomas digestivos, consultas médicas, medicamentos, exames, antecedentes cirúrgicos, comorbidades e questionário específico para diagnóstico de dispepsia funcional (Roma III). RESULTADOS Foram entrevistados 548 participantes. Destes, 58,4% eram mulheres, 59,3% da raça branca, 56% solteiros e a idade média foi de 36 anos. Neste grupo, 376 indivíduos (68,6%) declararam ter algum sintoma e/ou utilizar algum medicamento para aliviar sintomas dispépticos. Para esses indivíduos, foi utilizado o questionário Roma III para o diagnóstico de dispepsia sendo sintoma de plenitude pós-prandial (6,7%), saciedade precoce (3,5%) e a dor ou queimação no estômago (azia) presente em 10,6%. A sobreposição desses sintomas foi muito frequente. A prevalência de dispepsia funcional foi de 10,6% (síndrome de desconforto pós-prandial (8,2%), síndrome da dor epigástrica (2,4%)). Dentre os participantes, 52,5% relatavam pirose, sendo que desses 11,1% apresentavam este sintoma, no mínimo, uma vez por semana. O medicamento mais utilizado foi o Omeprazol. CONCLUSÃO A prevalência dos sintomas dispépticos e pirose na população urbana adulta brasileira é semelhante a descrita em outros países.

Prevalence of dyspeptic symptoms and heartburn of adults in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: - Medical literature has shown dyspepsia and heartburn-related symptoms occur among 15% to 40% of the population. These symptoms can occur at any age and are more prevalent in women. OBJECTIVE: - Investigate the prevalence of dyspeptic symptoms and heartburn among individuals over 18. METHODS: - Individuals over 18 were randomly selected in public venues in Belo Horizonte/MG to participate. A standardized questionnaire that included questions related to social-demographic characteristics, eating habits, digestive symptoms, medical appointments, medications, exams, previous surgeries and comorbidities was applied. A questionnaire about functional dyspepsia diagnosis (Rome III) was also applied. RESULTS: - A total of 548 individuals were interviewed. Among these, 58.4% were women, 59.3% were white, 55.9% were single and the average age was 36 years. Within this group, 376 individuals (68.6%) declared to have some symptom and/or use medication to relieve dyspepsia symptoms, and for these patients were applied the Rome III questionnaire. Based on the diagnostic criteria for the questionnaire proposed by the Rome III consensus, the symptom of postprandial fullness was reported by 6.7% of the individuals, early satiety (3.5%) and epigastric pain (10.6%). The overlap of these symptoms was very frequent. The prevalence of functional dyspepsia was 10.6% (postprandial discomfort syndrome (8.2%) and epigastric pain syndrome (2.4%). Among all participants, 52.5% reported heartburn, and 11.1% presented this symptom at least once a week. The most used drug was omeprazole. CONCLUSION: - The prevalence of dyspeptic symptoms and heartburn among a Brazilian adult urban population is similar to those described in other countries.

Discrepancies between upper GI symptoms described by those who have them and their identification by conventional medical terminology: a survey of sufferers in four countries.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to develop a self-administered questionnaire for upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms using lay vocabulary uninfluenced by established medical terminology or concepts and to conduct a survey of symptom occurrence among sufferers in four countries. METHODS: The questionnaire was designed by integrating information gained from the vocabulary used by 38 upper GI symptom sufferers. There was no medical input to its development. The questionnaire was then used, after appropriate translation, in Brazil, Russia, the UK and the USA. Details of 10 659 symptom episodes were obtained from 2665 individuals. RESULTS: Nine symptoms described in lay vocabulary were identified during questionnaire development. Of these, one corresponded to regurgitation, whereas two that were distinguished by survey participants might both be interpreted as heartburn. One chest symptom for which a corresponding medical term was uncertain occurred in ∼30% of the respondents. Five different 'stomach' or abdominal symptoms were identified. The predominant symptom and the pattern of concurrent symptoms often varied from one symptom episode to another. Use of the terms 'heartburn', 'reflux', 'indigestion' and 'burning stomach' to describe symptoms varied between countries. CONCLUSION: Some common upper GI symptoms described by those who suffer them have no clear counterpart in conventional medical terminology. Inadequacy of the conventional terminology in this respect deserves attention, first, to characterize it fully, and thereafter to construct enquiry that delivers more precise symptom identification. Our results suggest that improvement may require the use of vocabulary of individuals suffering the symptoms without imposing conformity with established symptom concepts.

Presencia de síntomas digestivos en el Día Mundial de la Salud Digestiva / Presence of digestive symptoms in the World Digestive Health Day

Introduction: Gastrointestinal symptoms such as heartburn, indigestion/dyspepsia, constipation and bloating are very common in every community. Our group applied a questionnaire in order to identify the presence of gastrointestinal symptoms. Methodology: In 2012, during the World Digestive Health Day a survey of 13 questions given by the World Gastroenterology Organization (WGO) was administered to a group of people (E) at the Clinical Hospital of the University of Chile (HCUCH); the questions were based on the presence and frequency of digestive symptoms. The results were compared with two other groups, one rural (R) and another comprised of people that were accompanying the patients attending HCUCH (group A) for examinations. A χ2 test was used to compare variables by group. Results: Total E = 270, A = 100, R = 69. Women: E = 212 (79 percent), A = 66 (66 percent), R = 43 (62.4 percent). Age E = 48, A = 44, R = 53 (p = 0.0003). Digestive discomfort: E = 94.8 percent (256), A = 81 percent (81), R = 85.5 percent (59) p = 0.000. Distension/bloating E = 94.44 percent (255), A = 84 percent (84), R = 81.2 percent (56) p = NS. Abdominal pain/discomfort E = 89.6 percent (242), A = 75 percent (75), R = 82.6 percent (57) p = 0.000. Constipation: E = 80 percent (216), A = 71 percent (71), R = 63.7 percent (44) p = 0.01, with significant differences in sensation of incomplete evacuation in the 3 groups p = 0.001. Heartburn E = 75.2 percent (203), A = 67 percent(67), R = 68.1 percent (47) p = NS. Reflux E = 74 percent (200), A = 69 percent (69), R = 68.1 percent (47) p = NS. Interference with sleep: E = 62.2 percent (168), A = 45 percent (45), R = 56.5 percent (39) p = 0.012. Problems with soft/mushy/liquid stools = 65.92 percent (178), A = 61 percent (61), R = 68.11 percent (47) p = NS. Conclusions: Over 80 percent of respondents provided an upset stomach. The control group had the highest prevalence of digestive symptoms...

Introducción: Síntomas digestivos como pirosis, indigestión/dispepsia, constipación y distensión son muy frecuentes en cada comunidad. Nuestro grupo aplicó un cuestionario con el objetivo de identificar la presencia de sintomatología digestiva. Metodología: En el año 2012, durante el día mundial de la salud digestiva (DMSD) se realizó en el Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile (HCUCH), una encuesta propuesta por la Organización Mundial de Gastroenterología (OMGE) que incluía 13 preguntas basadas en la presencia y frecuencia de síntomas digestivos. La encuesta se hizo a un grupo de personas (E). Los resultados fueron comparados con otros dos grupos, uno rural (R) y otro conformado por acompañantes (A) de pacientes que acudieron a exámenes al HCUCH. Se realizó una prueba χ² para comparar variables por grupo. Resultados: Total E = 270; A = 100; R = 69. Mujeres: E = 212 (79 por ciento), A = 66 (66 por ciento), R = 43 (62,4 por ciento). Edad E = 48, A = 44, R = 53 (p = 0,0003). Molestias digestivas: E = 94,8 por ciento (256), A = 81 por ciento (81); R = 85,5 por ciento (59) p = 0,000. Distensión/hinchazón E = 94,44 por ciento (255), A = 84 por ciento (84), R = 81,2 por ciento (56) p = NS. Dolor/molestia abdominal E = 89,6 por ciento (242), A = 75 por ciento (75), R = 82,6 por ciento (57) p = 0,000. Constipación: E = 80 por ciento (216), A = 71 por ciento (71), R = 63,7 por ciento (44) p = 0,01, existiendo diferencias significativas en sensación de evacuación incompleta en los 3 grupos p = 0,001. Pirosis E = 75,2 por ciento (203), A = 67 por ciento (67), R = 68,1 por ciento (47) p = NS. Reflujo E = 74 por ciento (200), A = 69 por ciento (69), R = 68,1 por ciento (47) p = NS. Interferencia con el sueño: E = 62,2 por ciento (168), A = 45 por ciento(45), R = 56,5 por ciento (39) p = 0,012. Problemas de heces blandas/ pastosas/líquidas E = 65,92 por ciento (178), A = 61 por ciento (61), R = 68,11 por ciento (47) p = NS...

Esofagitis en pacientes con pirosis, regurgitación o ambos / Esophagitis in Patients with Heartburn, Regurgitation or Both

Se realizó durante marzo de 2006 a marzo de 2007, un estudio observacional descriptivo, de serie de casos con el objetivo de ampliar los conocimientos acerca de los parámetros clínico-endoscópicos presentes en 236 pacientes con pirosis y regurgitación, a los que se les realizó una endoscopia digestiva superior en el Servicio de Gastroenterología del Hospital Vladimir Ilich Lenin. Previamente al proceder se aplicó un cuestionario. Las variables estudiadas fueron: edad, sexo, esofagitis, medicamentos favorecedores de reflujo gastroesofágico y hernia hiatal...(AU)

An observational descriptive study from March 2006 to March 2007 was carried out in 236 patients with heartburn, acid regurgitations or both. The patients were attended at Gastroendoscopy Department at V I Lenin Hospital in Holguín, for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopic examination. The aim of this work was to increase the knowledge on some clinical and endoscopic parameters in these patients. A questionnaire was applied before the endoscopic procedure was performed...(AU)

Constipation, haemorrhoids, and heartburn in pregnancy.

INTRODUCTION: Constipation, heartburn, and haemorrhoids are common gastrointestinal complaints during pregnancy. Constipation occurs in 11% to 38% of pregnant women. Although the exact prevalence of haemorrhoids during pregnancy is unknown, the condition is common, and the prevalence of symptomatic haemorrhoids in pregnant women is higher than in non-pregnant women. The incidence of heartburn in pregnancy is reported to be 17% to 45%. METHODS AND OUTCOMES: We conducted a systematic review and aimed to answer the following clinical questions: What are the effects of interventions to prevent or treat constipation in pregnancy? What are the effects of interventions to prevent or treat haemorrhoids in pregnancy? What are the effects of interventions to prevent or treat heartburn in pregnancy? We searched: Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and other important databases up to February 2010 (Clinical Evidence reviews are updated periodically, please check our website for the most up-to-date version of this review). We included harms alerts from relevant organisations such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). RESULTS: We found seven systematic reviews, RCTs, or observational studies that met our inclusion criteria. We performed a GRADE evaluation of the quality of evidence for interventions. CONCLUSIONS: In this systematic review we present information relating to the effectiveness and safety of the following interventions: acid-suppressing drugs; anaesthetic agents (topical); antacids with or without alginates; bulk-forming laxatives; compound corticosteroid and anaesthetic agents (topical); corticosteroid agents (topical); increased fibre intake; increased fluid intake; osmotic laxatives; raising the head of the bed; reducing caffeine intake, intake of fatty foods, and the size and frequency of meals; rutosides; sitz baths; and stimulant laxatives.

Síntomas ácido-pépticos gastroesofágicos como causa de consumo de antiácidos y ácido-supresores y su asociación con el índice de masa corporal en población adulta urbana / Use of antacids and acid-suppressors for gastro-esophageal peptic symptoms and body mass index in adult urban population

Introducción: El exceso de peso y la obesidad son considerados factores precipitantes en la aparición de síntomas de reflujo gastro-esofágico (RGE). Además, los antiácidos y ácido-supresores son altamente eficaces en la paliación de tales síntomas. Objetivo: conocer la prevalencia de pirosis y ardor epigástrico, sus factores precipitantes, consumo de antiácidos y de ácido-supresores, auto-medicación y su relación con la obesidad en adultos. Material y Método: encuesta personal y examen físico a 433 adultos sin RGE diagnosticado, historia de cirugía gastrointestinal y uso de estos medicamentos indicado por médicos. Resultados: los síntomas en estudio estaban presentes en el 60.1 por ciento del grupo (62,9 por ciento en mujeres y 57,3 por ciento en hombres) siendo más frecuente el ardor epigástrico (35,6 por ciento) que la pirosis (24,5 por ciento). Entre los sujetos sintomáticos el 95 por ciento utilizó medicación en forma regular. El 65 por ciento-83 por ciento de los sujetos con síntomas esporádicos recurrieron a antiácidos. Por el contrario, el 23,5 por ciento refirió síntomas diarios y entre ellos el 64 por ciento usaba ácido-supresores. La auto-medicación fue reconocida por el 78 por ciento-92 por ciento de personas con síntomas esporádicos y significativamente menos (48 por ciento) por sujetos con síntomas diarios. La tensión emocional (35,1 por ciento- 58,6 por ciento), ingesta de alcohol (9 por ciento) y alimentos muy condimentados (5 por ciento) fueron mencionados como factores precipitantes de los síntomas. Menos del 4 por ciento de los encuestados consideraron el aumento de peso corporal como factor precipitante. El índice de masa corporal en el grupo asintomático fue: mujeres 23,2 + - 3,4 kg/m2 y hombres 24,3 + - 3,3 kg/m2. Para el grupo sintomático las cifras fueron 22,5 + - 3,1 kg/m2 y 25 + - 3,5 kg/m2 respectivamente. En el grupo asintomático, el sobrepeso fue de 25,4 por ciento y la obesidad 5,7 por ciento no significativamente diferente del 28...

Prevalence of heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease in the urban Brazilian population.

BACKGROUND: The epidemiological aspects of heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease have been object of growing interest in the last decade because of its increasing prevalence and the complications of the disease. AIMS: To evaluate the prevalence of heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease as well as their main characteristics in the Brazilian urban population. METHODS: A national inquire enrolling 13,959 adults was conducted in 22 Brazilian cities. The inclusion criteria were the presence of heartburn at least once a week ("heartburn group") and age greater than 16 years old. Individuals with heartburn with frequency of more than once a week were considered as having gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD group). Factors related to the complaint were asked such as predisposing factors, habits (tobacco, alcohol and coffee intake) and body mass index. In this populational study a probabilistic model was used. RESULTS: The results are presented in absolute and relative frequency, which were ponderated estimates of the respective population figures. The global prevalence of heartburn was 11.9% (1,651 persons). Heartburn once a week was present in 4.6% (637 persons) and GERD in 7.3% (1,014 persons). The average ages of both groups were similar (men: 36.9 +/- 15.0; women: 39.6 +/- 15.1 yrs). Females were more affected in both groups. The occurrence of GERD increased with age and was more prevalent after 55 years old. The body mass index was in the normal range and similar in both groups (men: 24.7 +/- 4.6; women: 25.3 +/- 5.2 kg/m(2)). In both groups the individuals related their symptoms to food intake, fatty and spicy foods (heartburn group: 64.7%, 28.5%, 17.7%; GERD group: 55.0%, 25.9%, 11.7% respectively). In GERD group, stress (24.2%), health problems (22.3%) were more related to the symptoms than in heartburn group (20.0% and 15.0% respectively). CONCLUSIONS: The global prevalence of heartburn (11.9%) is relatively high in the Brazilian urban population, although lower than the reported figure to other countries. Heartburn and GERD have higher prevalence in women and both are related to food intake, fatty and spicy foods; GERD is more prevalent in individuals older than 35 years old.

Prevalence of heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease in the urban Brazilian population

RACIONAL: Os aspectos epidemiológicos da azia e da doença do refluxo gastroesofágico tem sido objeto de interesse crescente na última década devido o aumento na prevalência e nas complicações da doença. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a prevalência da doença do refluxo gastroesofágico e da azia e as principais características da doença na população urbana do Brasil. MÉTODOS: Inquérito nacional avaliou 13.959 indivíduos em 22 cidades brasileiras. Os critérios de inclusão foram:presença de azia, pelo menos, uma vez na semana e idade maior de 16 anos (grupo azia); presença de azia com freqüência maior que uma vez na semana, considerado como portadores da doença do refluxo gastroesofágico (grupo DRGE). Os fatores relacionados às queixas foram questionados como: fatores precipitantes; hábitos (tabaco, álcool e consumo de café); índice de massa corporal . Neste estudo populacional foi usado modelo probabilístico na analise estatística. RESULTADOS: Foram apresentados em freqüência relativa e absoluta, que era a estimativa ponderada da respectiva população. A prevalência global da azia foi de 11,9% (1.651 indivíduos). Azia uma vez por semana esteve presente em 4,6% (637 indivíduos) e doença do refluxo gastroesofágico em 7,7% (1.014 indivíduos). A idade média foi semelhante em ambos os grupos (homens: 36,9 ± 15,0; mulheres: 39,6 ± 15,1 anos). As mulheres foram mais afetadas em ambos os grupos. A ocorrência de doença do refluxo gastroesofágico aumentou com a idade e foi mais prevalente após os 55 anos de idade. O índice de massa corporal esteve na faixa normal e foi similar em ambos os grupos (homens: 24,7 ± 4,6; mulheres: 25,3 ± 5,2 kg/m2). Em ambos os grupos os indivíduos relataram seus sintomas à ingestão de comida, gorduras e alimentos picantes (grupo azia: 64,7%, 28,5%, 17,7%; grupo DRGE: 55,0%, 25,9%, 11,7%, respectivamente). No grupo DRGE, estresse (24,2%) e problemas de saúde (22,3%) foram os sintomas mais relatados que no grupo azia (20,0% e 15,0%, respectivamente). CONCLUSÕES: A prevalência global de azia (11,9%) é relativamente elevada na população urbana brasileira, apesar de mais baixa em comparação a outros paises. Azia e doença do refluxo gastroesofágico têm maior prevalência em mulheres e ambos são relacionados à ingestão de alimentos, alimentos gordurosos e picantes. A doença

[Prevalence of heartburn in Pelotas, RS, Brasil: population-based study]. / Prevalência de pirose em Pelotas, RS, Brasil: estudo de base populacional.

OBJECTIVE: Estimation of the prevalence of heartburn in an adult population of Pelotas, RS, Brazil, once there is no national study done with adequate and specific statistic analysis. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study in populational base. METHOD: Were included citizen over 20 years in samples obtained in 40 populational areas according to Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. An uniform and precodified questionnaire was applied to all participants. A quality control was done using a simplified questionnaire in 10% of the people that were included in the sample. Codification and the input of the data was done two times through the Epi-Info programme in order to minimize the consistency errors. The analysis of the figures was done in the SPSS programme and obtained comparations between the prevalence of heartburn in relation to demographic variables through the prevalence rate, confidence interval of 95% and the 'x - square test. Also were analysed the figures of heartburn associated to meals and decubit position. RESULTS: Among 1,263 persons included in the study were found rates of the heartburn prevalence of 48.2%, 32.2% and 18.2% in the last year, month and week, respectively. All forms of heartburn were associated to females with statistic significance. There was no association with age. The prevalence of heartburn associated with meals and decubit position in the last year was 33% and 16.6%, respectively. These association in the last month was 23% and 11.4% and in the last week was 14.3% and 7.2%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence found in this study should call attention to those persons which could be exposed to the risk of complications, as well as to those that have alterations in the life quality.

Prevalência de pirose em Pelotas, RS, Brasil: estudo de base populacional / Prevalence of heartburn in Pelotas, RS, Brasil: study in population base

RACIONAL: Desconhece-se a prevalência da doença do refluxo gastroesofágico no Brasil e em países latino-americanos, bem como de seu marcador mais específico: a pirose. O conhecimento desse parâmetro epidemiológico é importante pela influência eventual da enfermidade na qualidade de vida, bem como o risco de complicações. OBJETIVO: Estudar a prevalência de pirose na populaçäo adulta na cidade de Pelotas, RS. DELINEAMENTO: Estudo transversal de base populacional. PACIENTES E MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos indivíduos a partir de 20 anos, residentes na zona urbana da cidade. Utilizou-se amostragem por conglomerados em 40 setores censitários do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística. Questionários padronizados e pré-codificados foram aplicados aos participantes. Realizou-se controle de qualidade aplicando-se questionários simplificados em 10 por cento das pessoas incluídas na amostra. A codificaçäo e a entrada de dados através do programa Epi-Info foram realizadas duas vezes, com o intuito de diminuir os erros de consistência. A análise dos dados foi realizada através do programa SPSS, onde foram feitas comparações entre a prevalência de pirose em relaçäo às variáveis demográficas através das razöes de prevalências, intervalos de confiança a 95 por cento e do teste do qui-quadrado. RESULTADOS: Entre as 1.263 pessoas incluídas no estudo, encontraram-se taxas de prevalências de pirose de 48,2 por cento, 32,2 por cento e 18,2 por cento para o último ano, mês e semana, respectivamente. Todas as formas do desfecho pirose estavam associadas com o sexo feminino, de maneira estatisticamente significativa. Contudo, näo foi encontrada associaçäo com relaçäo à idade. CONCLUSÕES: As elevadas prevalências encontradas neste estudo devem chamar a atençäo para assistência médica a estes indivíduos, particularmente ao fato de que estäo expostos a eventuais complicações da doença do refluxo gastroesofágico.

Estudio transversal de prevalencia de síntomas de reflujo gastroesofágico en una población universitaria / Transversal study of gastroesophageal reflux symtoms prevalence in a universitary population

El reflujo gastroesofágico es una condición, que en ocasiones se comporta como una entidad nosológica. La prevalencia de manifestaciones clínicas en la población es aparentemente alta, sin embargo, existen pocos estudios al respecto. El objetivo de este trabajo es conocer la prevalencia de algunos síntomas de reflujo gastroesofágico en una población de estudiantes universitarios de la ciudad de Temuco. Para tal efecto, se diseño un estudio de corte transversal, para determinar la prevalencia de los siguientes síntomas: pirosis, regurgitación, disfagia y disfonía. La población blanco fueron los estudiantes de la carrera de medicina de la Universidad de la Frontera, de cuya totalidad se obtuvo la muestra estudiada. El cálculo del tamaño muestral se realizó en base a un nivel de confianza de 95 por ciento, sobre una prevalencia estimada previamente en 30 por ciento. Los síntomas fueron pesquisados a través de un cuestionario. Este, fue validado contra la opinión de un grupo de expertos en forma ciega. El análisis estadístico se realizó ajustando sexo y edad (menores y mayores de 23 años), para lo cual se utilizó tablas de contingencia y el estadígrafo X2 Pearson. Se estudiaron 96 sujetos (36 por ciento del total), 52 hombres (54 porr ciento) y 44 mujeres (46 por ciento), con una edad de 22,3 años (18-29 años). El 38 por ciento de los sujetos encuestados reportó pirosis, el 55 por ciento regurgitación, el 5 por ciento disfagia y un 10 por ciento disfonía matinal. Por otro lado, el 28 por ciento de los encuestados sintomáticos, afirmaron utilizar en forma habitual antiácidos y/o bloqueadores H2 para el control de sus síntomas. Al ajustar por edad y sexo, se constató que en general, los síntomas son más frecuentes en los hombres, pero el consumo de medicamentos en las mujeres (p < 0,05). Existe una elevada prevalencia de síntomas de reflujo gastroesofágico en la población estudiada. Se reporta una mayor prevalencia de la regurgitación que de pirosis. Un alto porcentaje de esta población consume medicación para el control de sus síntomas

Características clínicas y de laboratorio de pacientes con reflujo gastroesofágico crónico patológico / Clinical and laboratory features of patients with chronic gastroesophageal reflux

Background: Sixty percent of adults has typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux in Chile. Aim: To report the clinical and laboratory features of patients with gastroesophageal reflux. Patients and methods: Five hundred thirty four patients (255 male) with gastroesophageal reflux were included in a prospective protocol that included clinical analysis, manometry and endoscopy in all patients, barium swallow in 427, scintigraphy in 195, acid reflux test in 359, 24 h pH in 175, and differential potential of gastroesophageal mucosa in 73 patients. Results: There was no correlation between the severity of symptoms and the endoscopical severity. Patients with Barret esophagus were 12 years older, were male in a greater proportion and had a higher proportion of manometrically incompetent sphincters than patients with esophageal reflux but without esophagitis or with erosive esophagitis. Severity of acid reflux, measured with 24 h pH monitoring was proportional to the endoscopical damage of the mucosa. There was a close relationship between the mucosal change limit determined with differential potentials and with endoscopy. No short esophagi were found. Conclusions: Patients with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux must be assessed using several objective measures to determine the severity of their pathological alterations

[Prevalence of digestive symptoms in normal adult women and its association with cholelithiasis]. / Prevalencia de síntomas digestivos en mujeres adultas normales y su asociación a la litiasis biliar.

The aim of this work was to study the prevalence of biliary diseases and digestive symptoms in normal adult women. Four hundred nineteen women were chosen; of these 145 were discarded due to previous gastrointestinal diseases (20), previous gastrointestinal complaints (38) and previous cholecystectomy (85). Two hundred seventy six women were subjected to abdominal ultrasound examination; of these 53 had cholelithiasis and in three a gallbladder cancer was suspected (and confirmed by surgery). Considering women with previous cholecystectomy, cholelithiasis and gallbladder cancer, a 33.6% prevalence of biliary diseases can be inferred. An interrogation about gastrointestinal symptoms was performed to women subjected to ultrasound examinations, by 2 professionals unaware of ultrasound results. A high frequency of pyrosis, food intolerance and constipation was found, not observing differences between women with or without cholelithiasis. However, these last women had a higher frequency of upper abdominal pain. Both groups had also a high rate of previous surgical procedures.