Recent data suggest that the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease in the U.S. is increasing by 5% annually (Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2007; 5:17). Although GERD has a substantial effect on public health, the natural course of this disorder is not well defined. To examine the effect of metabolic risk factors on the natural course of GERD, researchers analyzed data on 3669 patients in Taiwan who, as part of a voluntary health-promotion program, underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at least twice …