Heartburn in a Sri Lankan community in the UK

Abstract

Purpose – The aims of this study are to assess the prevalence and timings of heartburn symptoms in a Sri Lankan population living in the UK and to identify diet and lifestyle symptom triggers.Design/methodology/approach – A total of 60 Sri Lankan adults, aged between 18 and 66 years completed a background questionnaire and a nine‐item gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) impact scale.Findings – Application of the GORD impact scale verified that all participants experienced heartburn symptoms on a weekly basis. Episodes of heartburn tend to occur post‐prandially. Diet and lifestyle factors were found to trigger heartburn symptoms particularly consuming spicy foods.Research limitations/implications – The incidence of heartburn in Sri Lankans may be due to the process of acculturation to the Western diet and lifestyle.Originality/value – This paper shows that Sri Lankans are susceptible to symptoms of heartburn.