Prevalence Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Research Articles

Socioeconomic traits and the risk of Barrett's esophagus and gastroesophageal reflux disease: A Mendelian randomization study.

Previous observational studies have shown that the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Barrett's esophagus (BE) is associated with socioeconomic status. However, due to the methodological limitations of traditional observational studies, it is challenging to definitively establish causality. To explore the causal relationship between the prevalence of these conditions and socioeconomic status using Mendelian randomization (MR). We initially screened single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to serve as proxies for eight socioeconomic status phenotypes for univariate MR analysis. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used as the primary analytical method to estimate the causal relationship between the eight socioeconomic status phenotypes and the risk of GERD and BE. We then collected combinations of SNPs as composite proxies for the eight socioeconomic phenotypes to perform multivariate MR (MVMR) analyses based on the IVW MVMR model. Furthermore, a two-step MR mediation analysis was used to examine the potential mediation of the associations by body mass index, major depressive disorder (MDD), smoking, alcohol consumption, and sleep duration. The study identified three socioeconomic statuses that had a significant impact on GERD. These included household income [odds ratio (OR): 0.46; 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 0.31-0.70], education attainment (OR: 0.23; 95%CI: 0.18-0.29), and the Townsend Deprivation Index at recruitment (OR: 1.57; 95%CI: 1.04-2.37). These factors were found to independently and predominantly influence the genetic causal effect of GERD. Furthermore, the mediating effect of educational attainment on GERD was found to be mediated by MDD (proportion mediated: 10.83%). Similarly, the effect of educational attainment on BE was mediated by MDD (proportion mediated: 10.58%) and the number of cigarettes smoked per day (proportion mediated: 3.50%). Additionally, the mediating effect of household income on GERD was observed to be mediated by sleep duration (proportion mediated: 9.75%). This MR study shed light on the link between socioeconomic status and GERD or BE, providing insights for the prevention of esophageal cancer and precancerous lesions.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease as a risk factor of dental hard tissues erosions

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common chronic disease leading to a spontaneous and regular retrograde flow of gastric and/or duodenal contents into the esophagus. Reflux of the gastric contents into the oral cavity refers to the extraesophageal presentation of the disease, which, in the absence of timely treatment, can result in erosion of dental hard tissue (EDHT) through repeated exposure of the dental tissue to acidic contents. EDHT are non-carious lesions of the dental hard tissues (mainly enamel, and in some cases dentin), induced by a chemical reaction involving acids, which results in demineralization processes. The incidence rates of EDHT in adult patients with GERD are 32.5–51.5%. The EDHT in GERD develops in stages. Initially, the gradual degradation of tooth pelicula happens when it gradually becomes decayed by repeated acidic attacks. The loss of the pelicula results in direct contact of hydrochloric acid refluxate with the enamel surface and initiation of its demineralization at pH < 5.5 with dissolution of hydroxyapatite crystals. Given the high prevalence of GERD in the population, it seems important to update an integrated approach to the treatment of such patients, which involves pharmacotherapy provided by the gastroenterologist, as well as prevention and minimally invasive treatment of presentations in the oral cavity by the dentist. Patients with EDHT due to GERD need to maintain individual oral hygiene (use mouth washes with a neutral pH level, avoid abrasive toothpastes), use remineralization therapy at home applying remogels (Tooth Mousse), and also be observed by a dentist as part of the follow-up care. Minimally invasive treatment by the dentist involves restorations using composite tooth filling materials and ceramic veneers. It is reasonable to empirically use proton pump inhibitors twice a day for 3 months for the direct treatment of GERD in patients with EDHT.

Prevalence and Assessment of Habits Related to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Among the Residents of Southwest Region in Saudi Arabia.

Introduction Digestive disorders, affecting 70 million people globally, have gained attention. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) causes heartburn and acid regurgitation. Factors like obesity, poor diet, and lifestyle influence its prevalence. GERD rates are higher in Saudi Arabia than in Western and East Asian countries, highlighting the need for local awareness, our study aims To assess the prevalence of local habits and risk factors of patients with GERD in the Southwest region of Saudi Arabia. Method This prospective descriptive cross-sectional online-based study included 372 individuals from the Southwest Region, Saudi Arabia. The study was conducted using a self-administrated online questionnaire to collect the data for the targeted participants. After obtaining consent to carry out the study, the data were collected and computerized using Microsoft Excel, to form a database using all the items from the data collecting sheets. Data was then encoded and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software, version 27 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Data was displayed and presented in the form of tables and charts Results This study included 372 individuals, predominantly Saudi 98.7%, n=367. The most common age group was 21-25 years (32.5%, n=121), followed by those over 40 (18.5%, n=69). Participants were mainly from Al-Qunfudhah and Haly 27.2%, n=101. Most were single (49.5%, n=184) or married (48.4%, n=180), with a bachelor's degree 66.7%, n=248. Employees comprised (36.3%, n=135), and students 30.9%, n=115. Only 2.7%, n=10were pregnant. Nearly half (48.4%, n=180) had a monthly income below 5,000 SAR. Most participants weighed 40-60 kg (41.4%, n=154) and were 150-160 cm tall (47%, n=175). The prevalence of GERD was 16.1%, n=60. Significant associations were found between GERD diagnosis and meal type, smoking, family history, and high pickle and salt intake (P-values: 0.002073, 0.000607, <0.00001, and 0.008557, respectively). Conclusion This study can conclude that the prevalence of GERD is not high in the Southwest region of Saudi Arabia. Significant risk factors regarding patients' habits should be taken into consideration and diminishing them in order to decrease the incidence of the disease and improve the quality of life of already diagnosed patients.

Prevalence of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Survivors From Infancy to Adulthood

BackgroundGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common comorbidity associated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), with reported cases of Barrett's esophagus (BE) and esophageal adenocarcinoma before the age of 25. The prevalence and natural course of GERD in CDH survivors remain uncertain due to variations in diagnostic methods. We aimed to analyse the GERD prevalence from infancy through young adulthood. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed pH-impedance measurements and endoscopic findings in 96 CDH survivors evaluated as routine care using well established clinical protocols.GERD was defined as an abnormal acid exposure time for pH-MII measurements and as presence of reflux esophagitis or BE at upper endoscopy. Clinical data including symptoms at time of follow-up and use of antireflux medication were collected. ResultsGERD prevalence remained consistently low (≤10%) across all age groups, yet many patients experienced GER symptoms. Histological abnormalities were observed in 80% of adolescents and young adults, including microscopic esophagitis in 50%. BE was diagnosed in 7% before the age of 18, all had GER symptoms. CDH severity, anatomy at the time of CDH correction, alcohol usage, and smoking did not emerge as significant risk factors for GERD. ConclusionsGiven the low GERD prevalence in CDH survivors, a symptom-driven approach to diagnosis and follow-up is warranted. We advise long-term follow-up for all adult patients due to the early onset of BE and the limited evidence available. The longitudinal course and impact of GERD on other long-term CDH-related comorbidities should be explored in larger cohorts. Level of EvidenceNot applicable

The impact of COVID-19 on resident doctors as the frontline in health services

As the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 increases, the workload due to the pandemic can affect health workers and increase the risk of psychological stress. Psychological factors such as anxiety can cause various physiological responses, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms. The persistent symptoms of GERD can reduce the patient's quality of life. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in October 2021 at the Dr. Zainoel Abidin Regional General Hospital, Banda Aceh. A total of 91 Specialist Medical Education Program responded to the study. Data from respondents were collected through the generalized anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7), GERD-Q, and WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires. The statistical analysis used was the contingency coefficient test. The results showed that 9.9% of respondents experienced suggestive GERD, minimal anxiety (92%), and good quality of life (51.6%). There was a significant relationship between anxiety levels and quality of life and the GERD prevalence of Specialist Doctor Education Program Participants during the COVID-19 pandemic (p&amp;lt;0.05). Most Specialist Medical Education Program participants did not suffer from GERD with minimal anxiety, followed by mild and moderate anxiety. The majority had a good and moderate quality of life during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease in nurse practice

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by a large number of clinical manifestations, including asymptomatic and extraesophageal manifestations, so the interest in this nosology of doctors of various specialties is huge. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is considered by modern gastroenterologists as one of the most urgent problems of diseases of the digestive tract. The prevalence of GERD in Western Europe is 10–20%, in Russia – 22,7%, and in Moscow – 23,6% [1]. Studies show that the incidence of this pathology is steadily increasing (annual increase of about 5%). The importance of gastroesophageal reflux disease is determined by its clinical significance, in particular, the possibility of the existence of so-called extraesophageal manifestations, as well as the lack of effectiveness of existing methods of treatment. All this causes close attention of gastroenterologists to the study of pathophysiological and clinical problems of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy.

Objectives To determine the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and associated factors. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in different regions around the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between 2022 and 2023. The questionnaire was distributed among patients who underwent LSG at different periods, ranging from six months to more than two years. The questionnaire comprised a risk factor assessment and the GERD-Health-Related Quality of Life (GERD-HRQL) questionnaire. Results A total of 387 participants with a mean age of 35.7±10.95 were included. The study included 225 females (58.1%) and 162 males (41.9%). The mean preoperative body mass index (BMI) was 44.36±8.07 kg/m2, which decreased to 28.78±6.31 kg/m2 postoperatively. Notably, dissatisfaction with general health surged from 17 (24.6%) preoperatively to 165 (42.6%) postoperatively. Despite no significant difference in GERD-HRQL scores in the group who had preoperative symptoms,282 (72.9%) reported experiencing heartburn, and 289 (74.7%) reported bloatingpostoperatively. Postoperatively, 203 (52.5%) reported improved quality of life. Moreover, changes in BMI were strongly correlated with heartburn, dysphagia, odynophagia, and bloating. The postoperative prevalence of GERD was 355 (91.7%), with 318 (82.2%) of participants reporting new-onset symptoms. Sex (P=0.013), age (P=0.024), and hypercholesterolemia (P=0.046) were significantly associated with postoperative GERD severity. Conclusions The majority of participants developed GERD symptoms following surgery, with a significant proportion reporting new-onset symptoms. Sex, age, and hypercholesterolemia have emerged as significant factors for postoperative GERD severity.

Prevalence and risk factors of gastro-esophageal reflux disease among college students at a public university in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most prevalent gastrointestinal disorders worldwide. It manifests when the lower esophageal sphincter malfunctions, causing the stomach's contents to reflux into the esophagus, lead to discomforting symptoms. Heartburn and regurgitation are the typical symptoms of GERD. This study aims to determine the prevalence of GERD and assess its risk factors. This cross-sectional study was conducted at IMSIU, Saudi Arabia. An online survey was distributed to the students' email addresses to determine the prevalence of GERD, its related risk factors, and understanding of its symptoms. One thousand five hundred and thirty-three (1533) students participated in the survey. The prevalence of GERD was 34.6%. The majority (79.7%) of the respondent students had heard of GERD. Stress is believed to be a factor in developing GERD by 35.7% of students. Heartburn was the predominant symptom of GERD (76.2%). No association existed between the socio-demographic traits of those with GERD except for age and academic year. It is imperative to raise public awareness of the disorder's characteristics and its modifiable risk factors to prevent the emergence of GERD and its complications.

COVID-19 Pandemic is Associated With Increased Prevalence of GERD and Decreased GERD-related Quality of Life: Analysis From 9800 Participants in the Indonesian GERD-Q Study.

The prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is expected to increase during the pandemic due to unexpected, sudden lifestyle changes such as decreased physical activity and worsening mental conditions. Here, we aim to explore the difference in the prevalence of GERD and GERD-related quality of life (QoL) in Indonesia during the COVID-19 pandemic compared with before the COVID-19 pandemic. Retrospective analysis of the Indonesian GERD Questionnaire study, a cross-sectional study utilizing an online form of the GERD Questionnaire, was done to compare the prevalence of GERD between March 2, 2018 to March 1, 2020 (prepandemic group) and March 2, 2020 to March 1, 2022 (pandemic group). The prevalence odds ratios between the 2 groups were calculated using χ2. A total of 9800 participants were included in the analysis; 1807 and 7993 were allocated to the pandemic and prepandemic groups, respectively. The prevalence of GERD in the pandemic and prepandemic groups were 67.9% and 61.8%, respectively (prevalence odds ratio: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.17-1.46). During the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of GERD, heartburn, and those who reported impaired GERD-related quality of life increased. Regurgitation was the most common symptom reported by participants.

Association of gastroesophageal reflux disease with gastritis activity in schoolchildren living in a region with a high incidence of gastric and esophageal cancer

Aim. To study the activity of the inflammatory process in the gastric mucosa (GM) in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in schoolchildren living in a region with a high incidence of stomach and esophageal cancer. Material and methods. The transverse method in the Republic of Tyva collected data on the presence of gastroenterological complaints in 1535 schoolchildren aged 7-17 years. The main diagnostic criterion for GERD was the presence of weekly heartburn in the subjects. Subsequently, esophagogastroduodenoscopy was performed with the taking of biopsy material of the mucosa of the antrum and body of the stomach in 246 children. Morphological assessment of GM was carried out in accordance with the Sydney classification after staining biopsy sections with hematoxylin-eosin. Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori was carried out after staining according to Giemsa. The studies were approved by the ethics committee and the consent of the examined was obtained. Results. Schoolchildren in Tyva have a high prevalence of GERD (9.5%). Associative relationship of GERD with gastritis activity, both in the body (p=0.7338) and in the antrum (p=0.2036) was not revealed. In the antrum, the activity of gastritis was higher than in the body of the stomach (p=0.0001). In children with GERD, when infected with Helicobacter pylori, there was an increase in activity, both in the antrum (p=0.0001) and in the body of the stomach (p=0.0159). At the same time, in children with GERD, the inflammatory process is associated with infection by a microorganism, regardless of its belonging to the Cag A strain. Conclusion. An association of GERD with highly active Helicobacter pylori associated gastritis has been established, regardless of whether the microorganism belongs to the Cag A strain.

Analyzing the correlation between gastroesophageal reflux disease and anxiety and depression based on ordered logistic regression

Numerous studies have indicated a connection between psychiatric symptoms, specifically anxiety and depression, and gastroesophageal reflux. However, the precise nature of the link between the severity of gastroesophageal reflux disease and the severity of anxiety and depression remains uncertain. Here, we gathered 24-h pH monitoring data and baseline patient information from a cohort of 518 individuals. Additionally, we evaluated their psychological well-being using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. The relationship between baseline characteristics and varying degrees of anxiety, depression, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) was assessed using R software version 4.1.3 and logistic regression models. The findings indicate a statistically significant variation in anxiety levels based on gender, as well as a significant disparity in depression groups when considering age and literacy levels. Kruskal–Wallis test analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between the severity of anxiety and depression and the 24-h pH monitoring results in our patient cohort. As the anxiety and depression levels increased, the rank mean for each examination result also increased. Logistic regression modeling analysis showed that a higher anxiety level was associated with a higher level of GERD. In the presence of mild anxiety, there is a statistically significant association with a higher incidence of GERD with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.64 (95% CI 1.50, 4.64). Similarly, the moderately severe anxiety group also exhibits a causal relationship with an increased GERD incidence, with an OR of 6.84 (95% CI 3.92, 12.17). Additionally, moderate to severe depression is associated with a higher incidence of GERD, with an OR of 2.32 (95% CI 1.23, 4.37). The prevalence of GERD was greater among males compared to females (OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.51–3.49). Additionally, an elevated body mass index (BMI) demonstrated a positive correlation with the susceptibility to GERD (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.01–1.14). Increasing age may promote the occurrence of GERD in patients. These findings may help to provide a better basis for psychological or pharmacological interventions for GERD patients with psychosomatic symptoms in the future, and provide a reference basis for clinical treatment of the disease.

THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES FOR ACID REDUCTION IN PATIENTS ADMITTED TO INTENSIVE CARE UNITS WITH A HISTORY OF GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN PAKISTAN.

Introduction: Although the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in intensive care units is still unknown, the condition is on the rise all over the world. Patients in critical condition are especially susceptible to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) because of the many procedures and underlying illnesses they undergo. Pepsin levels in oral secretions, ambulatory monitoring, and pH measurement are among procedures that can be utilized in the diagnostic process. The most popular treatment methods consist of adjusting one's lifestyle and using medicine, mainly proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Methodology: An analysis of data collected from 96 critically sick patients who were getting acid-lowering medication was carried out in retrospective research that was carried out at a tertiary care hospital in AJK, Pakistan between June and December 2023. Results: Most patients were being treated in medical intensive care units (MICU), and the medications that were prescribed the most frequently were omeprazole and esomeprazole. Omeprazole and antacids were the primary maintenance medications that were administered at the time of discharge. Patients who were diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and those who were undergoing mechanical ventilation made up a sizeable share, with most of them receiving intravenous proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Both potassium-competitive acid blockers and omeprazole were shown to have equivalent levels of treatment efficacy, according to the findings. Conclusion: Most of trials in past have established esomeprazole being highlighted as having superiority in certain studies. On the other hand, newer possibilities such as GABA-B agonist baclofen and P-CABs offer potential lines of investigation. Even though developing medicines require more exploration for routine management, intravenous proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) continue to be the primary emergency treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in critical care.

Community-based Descriptive Cross-sectional Study on Prevalence, Clinical Manifestation, Beliefs and Management Approach of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Among Young Bangladeshi Population

Despite being a common public health problem, there are few population-based research available to learn about the epidemiology and management of gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD) in Bangladesh. The tenacity of this study was to investigate the prevalence, potential predisposing factors, clinical representation, therapeutic management of GERD among the young Bangladeshi population along with their beliefs regarding the disease. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted during 13th June 2022 to 10th December 2022 among 925 individuals (16-35 years of age) from various parts of Bangladesh. A standardized online questionnaire in both English and the local language (Bengali) was utilized to collect all the desired data that were analyzed using either Microsoft Excel 2019 or, IBM SPSS Statistics, v26.0. The prevalence of GERD was 55.7% which was not significantly associated with different sociodemographic parameters. However, family history (Odds ratio (OR) = 2.512), irregular meal (OR = 1.527) and spicy/junk food (OR = 1.495) were significantly associated with GERD prevalence in binary logistic regression analysis. Heart burn (94.0%) and regurgitation (83.3%) were the major symptoms observed and the average number of symptoms was higher in patients with relevant family history (p &lt; 0.0005). Omeprazole (42.5%) was the most used medication to treat GERD followed by other proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers. Self-medication was practiced by 52.6% of the patients which was associated with duration of treatment (p &lt; 0.0005). The study has found a high prevalence of GERD in Bangladesh. Family history, irregular meal and spicy/junk foods have been identified as potential risk factors and only half the participants had the right belief regarding the effectiveness of lifestyle modification against GERD. Further cohort studies are advised to solidify the findings of this study. Bangladesh Pharmaceutical Journal 27(1): 19-36, 2024 (January)

Risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease: a population-based study.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in the long term reduces the quality of life, leading to digestive diseases. The present study aims to determine the risk factors for GERD. This study was conducted on 9,631 adults aged 35-65 years. The demographic characteristics, behavioral habits, nutritional intake, physical activity, anthropometric indices, and GERD data were extracted from the databank related to the Ravansar non-communicable diseases (RaNCD). Statistical analysis was performed using logistic regression models. The prevalence of GERD was 10.99% (n = 1,058). The GERD was higher among older age and women. After adjusting for age and sex, the odds of GERD among current smokers was 23% higher than non-smokers. Drinking increased odds of GERD (OR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.13, 1.99). The odds of GERD among depressed individuals were 46% higher than non-depressed. In addition, a significant relationship was observed between the high intake of sweets and desserts with increased GERD (OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.03). Further, high intake of fiber (OR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.97, 0.99) and dairy (OR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.98, 0.99) was related to reducing the odds of GERD. Furthermore, a significant relationship was reported between the waist hip ratio (WHR) and visceral fat area (VFA) with increased odds of GERD. Finally, the physical activity level was inversely related to GERD. Based on the results, smoking, alcohol, inactivity, high intake of sweets and desserts, low intake of fiber, depression, visceral fat, and obesity are considered as risk factors for GERD. Modifying lifestyle and behavioral habits prevent GERD.

Correlation of gastro-esophageal reflux disease with asthma control and quality of life: a cross-sectional study from a low-middle income country.

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic disease that coexists with asthma and is often responsible for repeated exacerbations, as well as has a negative impact on the quality of life (QoL). However, from our continent, there is limited data available on the exact prevalence of GERD in asthma and its association with asthma control and QoL. To determine the prevalence of GERD in asthma and see its association with asthma control and QoL. A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted over 8 months from September 2020 to April 2021. Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of asthma aged 18 years and above were recruited from the outpatient department of pulmonology. Patients' GERD score was calculated using the FSSG SCALE (Frequency Scale for Symptoms of GERD) questionnaire and the Asthma Control Test (ACT) was used to determine asthma control. To assess the QoL, the short form of health survey (SF-36) questionnaire was used. Patients were recruited through a convenience sampling technique. A total of 190 patients were enrolled, the mean age was 33.7 ± 13.3 years and 55.8% were female. Prevalence of GERD was (136) 71.6%. According to the ACT score, 81 (42.6%) patients had very poorly controlled asthma (mean GERD score of 13.73 ± 7.66), compared to 59 (31.1%) asthmatic patients who had well-controlled asthma (mean GERD score of 11.97 ± 7.39, p = 0.43). SF-36 questionnaire was used to measure QoL showed GERD patients had statistically lower scores in the following domains of QoL: "Role Limitations due to Physical Functioning" (37.78 vs 57.44, p = 0.003), "Energy/Fatigue" (47.47 vs 55.07, p = 0.02), and "Bodily Pain" (63.40 vs 72.84, p = 0.01). This study showed a high prevalence of GERD among asthmatic patients with a negative impact on QoL but did not demonstrate a statistically significant relationship between GERD and asthma control.

Obesity is associated with higher prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease and reflux related complications: A global healthcare database study.

Prior studies have demonstrated that obesity may be associated with the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and GERD-related complications. However, such association has never been assessed in a global-wide real-world patient population. The TriNetX electronic health records network, which involves 92 healthcare organizations in 12 countries, was utilized for this multicenter global health research network study. The cohort with obesity comprised adult patients with body mass index (BMI) of more than 30 kg/m2. We performed 1:1 propensity score matching to decrease confounders effects. The prevalence of GERD and GERD-related complications including erosive esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus (BE), BE with dysplasia, and esophageal adenocarcinoma were assessed. A total of 2,356,548 patients were included in the obesity and non-obesity groups after propensity score matching. In the group with obesity, patients had a significantly higher prevalence of GERD (30% vs. 24%, OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.34-1.36) compared to the group without obesity. Further analysis showed a higher prevalence of GERD-related complications in the group with obesity with statistical significance: Erosive esophagitis (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.05-1.08), Barrett's esophagus (1.08, 1.05-1.10), BE with dysplasia (1.11, 1.04-1.18), esophageal cancer (1.32, 1.15-1.51). Globally, obesity was associated with a higher prevalence of GERD and GERD-related complications.

The prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease and laryngopharyngeal reflux in patients with dysphagia after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

The prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) in post-irradiated patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is unknown. In a cross-sectional study, 31 NPC and 12 control patients completed questionnaires for GERD/LPR before esophageal manometry and 24-h pH monitoring. The DeMeester score and reflux finding score (RFS) were used to define GERD and LPR, respectively. Risk factors were identified. 51.6% of NPC and 8.3% of control patients, and 77.4% of NPC and 33% of control patients, were GERD-positive and LPR-positive, respectively. The GERD/LPR questionnaire failed to identify either condition in patients with NPC. No parameter differences in esophageal manometry or pneumonia incidence were noted between GERD/LPR-positive and GERD/LPR-negative patients. Post radiotherapy duration, high BMI, lack of chemotherapy, and dysphagia were positive risk factors for GERD/LPR. A high prevalence of GERD/LPR in patients with post-irradiated NPC exists, but reflux symptoms are inadequate for diagnosis.

Multidisciplinary Approach To The Problem Of Managing Children With Frequent Respiratory Infections Of The Upper Respiratory Tract: Key Results

Background. Recurrent upper respiratory diseases in children are an urgent and common issue in pediatrics. Comorbidities often lead to prolonged, complicated, or chronic course of the inflammatory process in the upper airways.Objective. The aim of the study — scientific evidence and complex technology development for the management of children with recurrent upper respiratory diseases according to implemented multidisciplinary personalized approach, complex of modern methods for diagnosing and health monitoring to achieve long-term remission.Materials and methods. The study included 115 children aged from 2 years 6 months to 17 years 11 months with recurrent upper respiratory diseases. Examination included: nasal cavity, nasopharynx and larynx endoscopy, abdomen ultrasound with aqueous-siphon test, tympanometry, and laboratory tests (total and specific IgE levels, antistreptolysin-O, microbiological study of nasopharynx and oropharynx discharge, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of feces on Helicobacter pylori.Results. The study has revealed high prevalence of associated allergic pathology in children with recurrent upper respiratory diseases. Allergic rhinitis was the most common (55 (48%) children). There was also a high prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (37 (32%) children). Clinical signs of GERD were revealed in patients with chronic diseases significantly more often than in children with acute ENT pathology (27 (38%) and 10 (23%) children, respectively). It confirms the role of this comorbid condition in the development and course of chronic inflammatory process of the upper airways. Obtained data analysis has shown high prevalence of allergic and gastrointestinal pathology in children with recurrent upper respiratory diseases. Diagnostic and management algorithm for patients with recurrent upper respiratory diseases as well as practical guidelines were prepared based on the study data. This algorithm will allow to implement the personalized multidisciplinary approach for the management of prior and comorbid diseases via modern informative diagnostic methods. The complex approach to timely physical examination and pathogenetic treatment will ensure control of the patient’s condition and prevent the development of chronic ENT organ pathology in children.

Prevalence and risk factors of gastroesophageal reflux disease in Iran: A cross-sectional analysis from the PERSIAN cohort.

This study assessed the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in a general adult population in Iran. The association between GERD and various factors was also evaluated. We performed a cross-sectional study on 163,018 individuals aged over 35 who were enrolled in the PERSIAN cohort. GERD was defined as the occurrence of heartburn and/or regurgitation symptoms at least several days a month. Survey design analysis for pooled data was performed and multiple regression analysis was conducted to determine the independent risk factors for GERD. The prevalence of GERD in our study was estimated at 21.86% (95% confidence interval:17.4%-36.4%). The mean age of the participants was 49.84 years±9.25 (35-70) and 44.75% of the participants were male. Symptoms of heartburn and regurgitation were reported in 18.65% (n: 29,170) and 6.06% (n: 9,717) of participants, respectively. In the multivariate analysis, several factors were found to be associated with a higher prevalence of GERD: female sex, age >50, current smoking, opium use, weekly consumption of fried foods, frequent consumption of hot tea, less than 6 hours of sleep per night, psychiatric disorders, usage of NSAIDs, and poor oral hygiene, were associated with a higher prevalence of GERD. Conversely, higher education levels and average physical activity were found to be less commonly associated with GERD. We found a relatively high prevalence of GERD (21.86%) in this population-based study in Iran. By identifying modifiable risk factors, this research offers opportunities for targeted interventions and lifestyle modifications to reduce the burden of GERD.

Oestrogen and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Dynamics in Premenopausal and Postmenopausal Women: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a common clinical disorder characterised by the reflux of stomach contents into the oesophagus, primarily due to the temporary relaxation of the Lower Oesophageal Sphincter (LES). The aetiology of GERD is multifactorial. The prevalence of GERD in females has been found to sharply increase throughout the postmenopausal period compared to the reproductive phase. Aim: To study the relationship between serum oestrogen levels in premenopausal and postmenopausal women with GERD. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 60 patients with GERD were divided into 30 premenopausal and 30 postmenopausal groups. The study subjects underwent high-resolution oesophageal manometry. The Cobas e 411 immunoassay analyser was utilised to measure serum oestrogen levels through electrochemiluminescence. The independent, unpaired Student's t-test was employed to analyse the collected data. Results: The statistical analysis revealed that the mean reduced LES pressure of 9.76±3.80 mmHg and the mean reduced Oesophagogastric Junction Contractile Integral (EGJ-Cl) of 14.503±10.64 mmHg were lower in women with postmenopausal GERD who exhibited lower oestrogen levels compared to those with premenopausal GERD. An increase in LES pressure was also associated with an increase in EGJ-CI, demonstrating a statistically significant positive linear correlation between LES pressure and EGJ-CI. The p-value &lt;0.05 was deemed highly statistically significant. Conclusion: Parameters such as basal LES pressure and EGJCl were observed to be reduced in postmenopausal women with GERD who had low oestrogen levels. This study suggests that oestrogen plays a crucial role in safeguarding the oesophageal epithelium against the reflux of gastric contents.