Prevalence of Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease and Its Risk Factors Among Medical Students in Medina

Abstract

Background and aim: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders presenting in general medical practice which adversely affects the quality of life. We Aimed to determine the prevalence of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and its risk factors among medical students in Medina, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2021 using a pre-designed questionnaire distributed among medical students in Medina, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire was composed of questions regarding sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics. The diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease was made using the GERDQ questionnaire. The data were analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 27. Results: Out of the 385 participants, the majority were females (65.7%). Based on ≥8 GERDQ score, 14.8% had Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. The only significant risk factor was family history (36.8%). The prevalence of the remaining factors among the Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease group in the following descending order: skipping breakfast (66.7%), normal body mass index (62.5%), sleeping <7 hours/day (57.9%), fried food (57.9%), coffee and tea intake (50.9%), spicy food (49.1%), eating main meals within 10 min (43.9%), fast food (42.1%), sleeping within <1 hour of dinner (31.6%), exercising 2-3 times/week (26.3%), carbonated drinks (22.8%), smoking (10.5%), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs use (5.3%). Conclusion: The prevalence of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease was 14.8%. A significant correlation was observed between Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and a positive family history. Emphasis should be focused on implementing interventions aimed at increasing the awareness of this disease among medical students.