Prevalence Of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Research Articles

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Among Medical and Dental Students of Rawalpindi/Islamabad

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease among medical and dental students of Rawalpindi Islamabad Pakistan and to find the associated risk factors.
 Study Design: Analytical cross-sectional study.
 Place and Duration of Study: Students of Medical colleges in Rawalpindi Islamabad Pakistan, from March to May 2021. 
 Methodology: Non-probability convenience sampling technique was used. Sample size was found to be 352 using Rao soft.Only undergraduate students from Rawalpindi Islamabad Pakistan were included whereas postgraduate students were excluded. The data was collected via online distributed google forms and analyzed by SPSS version 25.0. 
 Results: There were 157(44.6%) males and 195(55.41%) females among whom 296(84.1%) were enrolled in medical program and 56(15.9%) in dental program. 94 students (26.7%) reported having symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease .Based on a GERD score of >=4, 35(9.94%) students were diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease .Use of analgesics (OR=3.11[95% CI 1.32-7.36]; P≤0.010), family history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (OR=6.48[95% CI 3.09-13.57]; P≤0.000),family history of peptic ulcer (OR=2.85[95%CI 1.18-6.83] P≤0.038), frequent use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(P≤0.013) had a significant association with the presence of gastroesophageal reflux disease .
 Conclusion: Gastroesophageal reflux disease was diagnosed in approximately 10% of students. There was a significant association of Gastroesophageal reflux disease with use and frequent consumption of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and family history of peptic ulcer/Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Meta-analysis on the epidemiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease in China.

No large-scale epidemiological survey on the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in China has been conducted. China has a large population and a complex geographical environment. It is important to understand the prevalence and spatial distribution of GERD in China. To explore the prevalence and the spatial, temporal, and population distributions of GERD in the natural Chinese population. We searched Chinese and English databases for literature on the prevalence of GERD in the natural Chinese population. The prevalence of GERD was pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis model. Subgroup analysis was performed according to time, region, and population. We used ArcGIS software to draw statistical maps and trend analysis charts. Spatial autocorrelation analysis was carried out using Geoda software. Spearman correlation analysis was used to assess the spatial distribution relationship between GERD and upper digestive tract tumours. Altogether, 70 studies involving 276014 individuals from 24 provinces of China were included. The overall pooled prevalence of GERD was 8.7% (95%CI: 7.5%-9.9%) in mainland China. Over the past two decades, the prevalence of GERD in China has increased from 6.0% to 10.6%. GERD was more common in people aged 40-60, with body mass index ≥ 24, and of Uygur ethnicity. The prevalence was higher in the west and east than in the centre, and there may be a local spatial autocorrelation between the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the southeast. GERD was correlated with gastric (r = 0.421, P = 0.041) and oesophageal tumours (r = 0.511, P = 0.011) in spatial distribution. GERD is becoming common in China. The prevalence differs by region and population. The development of appropriate strategies for the prevention and treatment of GERD is needed.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients have A Higher Risk of Developing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease than the General Population A-Multi-Center-Study

Background: Partially reversible airflow restriction is a symptom typical of COPD, a kind of obstructive lung disease. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease distinct pathological and clinical phenotypes: emphysema and chronic bronchitis (COPD). Both elements are quite individualistic. Whether or not to regularly examine COPD patients for the possibility of GERD and treat it effectively might be aided by the discovery of an increased prevalence of Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in this patient population. Objective: As GERD is associated with a worse prognosis in COPD patients, it is important to understand the prevalence of this condition among those who suffer from the disease. Methodology: From January 2021 to January 2022, researchers at a major hospital in Peshawar analyzed data from many similar hospitals. A total of 108 participants participated in this trial. Comprehensive histories and physical examinations were performed on patients (aged 20 to 75). Then, spirometry and the Q-questionnaire were administered to individuals who had satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria. All patients had their spirometry readings taken by the same CPSP-certified technicianpatients' FEV1 measurements following a bronchodilator treatment were assessed by the same CPSP-fellow consultant of pulmonology using the GOLD criteria, giving each patient a grade (from "01" to "04"). The prevalence of GERD was calculated as a percentage of all COPD cases in patients who completed the Q-questionnaire. Results: There was a 12.580 standard variation in the individuals' ages, with a mean of 58.76. Most patients were women (60%), while men made up just 40% of the Total. The prevalence of GERD among those with COPD was 52 percent. Conclusion: This study's findings led us to conclude that patients with COPD had a frequency of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which was 52%. Keywords: Acid Reflux In The Stomach; COPD, Multicenter

Key Considerations From a Health Authority Perspective When Proton Pump Inhibitors Are Used to Treat Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Their Implications.

The growing prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) needs to be carefully managed to relieve the symptoms and prevent complications. Complications of GERD can include erosive esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus and gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are typically first-line treatment for GERD alongside lifestyle changes in view of their effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. However, there are concerns with adherence to dosing regimens and recommended lifestyle changes reducing their effectiveness. There are also concerns about potential complications from chronic high-dose PPIs. These include an increased risk of chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular events and infections. Recommendations to physicians include prescribing or dispensing the lowest dose of PPI for the shortest time, with ongoing patient monitoring. Activities among community pharmacists and others have resulted in increased dispensing of PPIs without a prescription, which can be a challenge. PPIs are among the most prescribed and dispensed medicines in view of their effectiveness in managing GERD. However, there are concerns with the doses prescribed and dispensed as well as adherence to lifestyle advice. These issues and challenges need to be addressed by health authorities to maximize the role and value of PPIs.

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.

56 Gastroesophageal reflux disease in children with neurological impairment: a population-based retrospective cohort study

Abstract Background Children with neurological impairment (NI) are at increased risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and may be more susceptible to complications such as esophagitis and aspiration. Diagnosis is challenging due to communication impairments and frequent comorbidities, such as dysphagia, that present similarly to GERD. There is a risk of both under and over diagnosis with detrimental effects. Prior research has suggested the prevalence of GERD is as high as 75%. However, these studies examined subpopulations such as children presenting with symptoms or living in institutions, often many decades ago. Objectives Our aim was to determine the incidence and prevalence of GERD diagnosis and treatment in children with NI at a population level. Design/Methods This is a retrospective cohort study using provincial administrative data. Children with NI were identified by International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) codes in the Discharge Abstract Database (DAD) between 2006 and 2018. GERD was defined as: (1) 1+ codes in DAD or National Ambulatory Care Reporting System; (2) 2+ specialist claims; (3) 1+ ASM prescription. Age, gender, complex chronic conditions (CCC) and technology assistance (TA) were covariates. ASM prescriptions and anti-reflux procedures were collected. Descriptive statistics included means with standard deviations and counts with proportions. Univariable and multivariable Poisson regressions calculated incidence rates and rate ratios for the presence of GERD and prescription of ASM. Results Among 10,309 children with NI, 2,772 (26.9%) met the GERD definition. The unadjusted incidence rate was 52.1 per 1000 person-years. Increasing numbers of CCCs were associated with a higher risk of GERD. Children with four or more CCCs had an incidence almost three times that of children with no CCCs. A gastrostomy tube incurred a five times higher rate of GERD. Overall, 2486 (23.7%) of the children were treated with ASMs of which 1535 (61.7%) met no other GERD criteria. The incidence rate was 16.9 prescriptions per year. Neonatal, respiratory and congenital CCCs were associated with higher rates of ASM prescribing. The prevalence of gastrojejunostomy tubes was 1.1% (n=121), surgical jejunostomy tubes was 0.7% (n=79) and fundoplication was 3.3% (n=351). Conclusion The incidence of GERD in children with NI is dramatically higher than in the general pediatric population, as is the use of ASM. Both disparities are heightened in children with gastrostomy tubes, perhaps due to increased severity of NI or relevant comorbidities. Regardless, GERD is clearly a significant clinical issue in this population that warrants additional study to determine optimal diagnosis and treatment practices.

Effectiveness and tolerability of Poliprotect, a natural mucosal protective agent for gastroesophageal reflux disease and dyspepsia: Surveys from patients, physicians, and pharmacists

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and functional dyspepsia (FD) are very common in the general population. GERD prevalence is considerably high in pregnant women, and it increases at a young age, alongside obesity. Mucosal protective agents (MPAs) are over-the-counter (OTC) treatments for FD and GERD commonly used alone or as add-on therapy to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Real-world data through surveys allow a clinical evaluation of marketed products that also complies with the new regulation on substance-based medical devices (SBMDs).Aim: The study aimed to evaluate perceived effectiveness, safety, and pattern of usage among patients, physicians, and pharmacists of the natural MPA Poliprotect, as assessed by a validated survey methodology.Methods: Questionnaire repeatability was first assessed, resulting in the intraclass correlation coefficient agreement level >0.9 in the three validation cohorts of physicians, pharmacists, and patients. All questions were closed multiple-choice, allowing measuring variations in frequency, quality, or magnitude of effect on a 5-point Likert-like verbal scale.Results: Three different surveys were performed in Italy and Spain on a total of 3,471 physicians, including 77 gastroenterologists, 848 patients, and 146 pharmacists who had an experience with Poliprotect in the previous year. Over 90% of general practitioners (GPs) rated Poliprotect effectiveness as good/excellent in controlling pyrosis, 80% for epigastric pain, and approximately 70% for digestion difficulties. GPs reported Poliprotect as very or extremely useful as an alternative to PPIs (73%) and for pregnancy-associated GERD symptoms (61%), almost unanimously (99.5%) reporting an excellent to good tolerability; 79% of the gastroenterologists answered to be extremely or very satisfied with the improvement of typical GERD symptoms, whereas improvement of dyspepsia and pregnancy- and breast-feeding-associated GERD symptoms was rated as highly satisfactory for 69, 52, and 62%, respectively, among GI specialists. Its use because of painful dyspeptic symptoms was reported by over 80% of patients, who rated symptom relief as excellent/good, and reported a marked quality-of-life improvement in 73% and in 65% of their answers, respectively. The product was used as monotherapy by 63% of patients. Conclusion: Large-scale, validated surveys support the safety and effectiveness of Poliprotect in the treatment of common functional upper GI disorders.

GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE AND PHRENIC NERVE INJURY: A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF 518 PATIENTS WITH CLINICALLY SIGNIFICANT DIAPHRAGM PARALYSIS

GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE AND PHRENIC NERVE INJURY: A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF 518 PATIENTS WITH CLINICALLY SIGNIFICANT DIAPHRAGM PARALYSIS

Functional gastrointestinal disorders are associated with capsaicin cough sensitivity in severe asthma

BackgroundAlthough sensory nerve dysfunction is related to the pathology of severe uncontrolled asthma and functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), the impact of comorbid FGIDs on the pathophysiology of severe uncontrolled asthma remains poorly understood. The aim was to clarify the physiological relationships between severe uncontrolled asthma and FGIDs. MethodsFifty-two patients with severe uncontrolled asthma who visited our hospital between September 2016 and August 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical characteristics, other comorbidities including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and biomarkers such as fractional nitric oxide (FeNO) and capsaicin cough sensitivity (C-CS) before the beginning of biologics or bronchial thermoplasty, were compared between patients with and without comorbid FGIDs. C-CS was evaluated by C5 (concentration of inhaled capsaicin that induced five or more coughs), and C5 ≤2.44 μM was defined as heightened C-CS. ResultsSeventeen patients had comorbid FGIDs. These patients had a lower FeNO level (21.9 ± 1.7 ppb vs. 33.9 ± 2.8 ppb, P = 0.04), a lower C5 threshold (2.24 ± 2.88 μM vs. 8.91 ± 5.5 μM, P < 0.001), a higher prevalence of comorbid GERD (64.7% vs. 31.7%, P = 0.03), and a higher prevalence of heightened C-CS (70.6% vs. 28.6%, P = 0.007) than those without FGIDs. Analysis of covariance showed a significant effect of FGIDs on C-CS in severe uncontrolled asthma without being affected by GERD. ConclusionsComorbid FGIDs are associated with heightened C-CS in patients with severe uncontrolled asthma, and they may be an important extra-respiratory manifestation of the airway neuronal dysfunction phenotype of severe uncontrolled asthma.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in children with neurological impairment: a retrospective cohort study

ObjectivesTo determine the incidence and prevalence of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) diagnosis and treatment in children with neurological impairment (NI) along with relationship to key variables.DesignThis is a population-based retrospective...

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Highlighting Diagnosis, Treatment, and Lifestyle Changes.

Millions of people worldwide are affected by the prevalent clinical issue, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Both conventional and unusual symptoms can identify patients. Many people with GERD benefit from symptomatic relief and are shielded from consequences by acid suppression medication. Our capacity to recognise and manage disease consequences has improved thanks to developments in diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. One of the biggest typical gastrointestinal problems treated by physicians and primary care doctors is GERD, which is characterised by heartburn and regurgitation symptoms. GERD prevalence has increased, especially in North America and East Asia. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) have been the cornerstone of medical treatment for GERD for the past thirty years. However, clinicians and patients are becoming more aware of the adverse effects of the PPI class of medications recently.Additionally, surgical fundoplication has significantly decreased, while the evolution of non-medical therapeutic methodologies for GERD has increased. In the treatment of GERD, lifestyle changes are crucial. Individual variances can be seen in how GERD symptoms change in response to different diets. The study implies that there may be a connection between reflux occurrence and salty foods, chocolates, fat-rich foods, and aerated beverages, even if there is insufficient data to support this theory. In lifestyle modifications, other factors involved are the head of the bed, patients' lying down position, smoking, fat or obesity, and physical exercise. The number of reviews focusing on various diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities is very less, so this review puts emphasis on these areas. This review also covers GERD and its symptoms, epidemiology, and pathophysiology, but significantly focuses on diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle modification effects.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Viewer or Actor? To Treat or Not to Treat?

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a rare and severe disease with a median survival of ∼3 years. Several risk factors have been identified, such as age, genetic predisposition, tobacco exposure, and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Prevalence of GERD in IPF is high and may affect 87% of patients, of whom only half (47%) report symptoms. Objective: The aim of this study is to review current evidence regarding the correlation between GERD and IPF and to evaluate the current studies regarding treatments for GERD-IPF. Methods: A review to identify research papers documenting an association between GERD and IPF was performed. Results: We identified several studies that have confirmed the association between GERD and IPF, with an increased acid exposure, risk of gastric aspiration and bile acids levels in these patients. Few studies focused their attention on GERD treatment, showing how antiacid therapy was not able to change IPF evolution. Conclusions: This review investigating the correlation between GERD and IPF has confirmed the hypothesized association. However, further large prospective studies are needed to corroborate and elucidate these findings with a focus on preventative and treatment strategies.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Bulgaria: An Internet-Based Survey

Background: The global pooled prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is approximately 14% and varies significantly according to the country. More population-based studies are needed in regions lacking epidemiological data on the prevalence of GORD, such as Eastern Europe, particularly Bulgaria. This current study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of GORD in Bulgaria and assess the risk factors associated with this disorder. Methods: An internet-based health survey was sent to Bulgarian adults. Individuals were invited to complete an online questionnaire on general and gastrointestinal health. The aim of the study was not explicitly stated. The survey collected data on sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics, validated questions to assess GORD, diagnostic questions based on Rome IV criteria to assess irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD), and questions about antisecretory drugs usage. Results: Data were collected from 1,896 individuals (mean age = 35.5 years, SD = 11.7, 73.1% females). The prevalence of GORD in the study population was 27.5%, while 57.29% of all GORD patients taking PPIs had PPI-refractory GORD. Age (p = 0.02), body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.001), marital status (p = 0.03), occupation (p < 0.001), sexual problems (p < 0.001), FD (p < 0.001), and IBS (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with GORD prevalence. Patients with FD (p < 0.001; OR 5.38), IBS (p = 0.03; OR 1.07), and with higher BMI (p < 0.001, OR 1.05) were at an increased risk of having GORD. Conclusions: The first data on GORD prevalence in the adult population in Bulgaria have been reported. Disorders of gut-brain interaction have a significant impact on the prevalence of GORD.

Problems of Distribution and Pathophysiology of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

This article provides an overview of the literature data on the problem of the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Some pathophysiological aspects of this pathology are analyzed. The authors conclude that gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common clinical problem that affects millions of people around the world, according to some reports, up to 25–30% of the adult population is affected by it. Patients are recognized by both classic and atypical symptoms. GERD is associated with lifestyle factors, in particular obesity and tobacco smoking, which also threatens overall health.

Comparison of Gastrointestinal Symptoms between Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis and Healthy Population.

Background: Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) complain of many gastrointestinal (GI) problems. The goal of the current study was to compare the prevalence of GI disorders in a relatively large group of patients with ESRD with healthy participants. Methods: In a matched case-control study, 597 patients undergoing hemodialysis and 740 healthy participants were investigated. All subjects were asked to complete Rome III questionnaire, including five modules to evaluate GI disorders. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression questionnaire, as well as the 12-general health questionnaire for psychological disorders assessment, were used. Results: Our results showed that in patients undergoing hemodialysis, the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (OR=1.75), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (OR=1.55), and dyspepsia (OR=3.39) was significantly higher than in healthy control participants, while no significant difference was found in terms of constipation (OR=0.88). The association remained significant for dyspepsia and IBS even after controlling for psychological disorders as important potential confounding variables. On the other hand, adjustment for psychological disorders led to an insignificant association between hemodialysis and GERD. Surprisingly a significant relationship was observed between constipation and hemodialysis after adjustment for mentioned psychological factors. Conclusion: Our results showed that there was a significant relationship between hemodialysis and some GI complaints such as IBS, dyspepsia, GERD, and bloating. Psychological disorders only influence GERD prevalence in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

High rate of missed Barrett’s esophagus when screening with forceps biopsies

BackgroundScreening for Barrett’s esophagus (BE) with endoscopy plus forceps biopsy (FB) has poor compliance with the recommended Seattle protocol and fails to sample large areas of mucosa. This statistical modeling study estimates, for the first time, the actual frequency of missed BE cases by FB.MethodsPublished, calibrated models in the literature were combined to calculate the age-specific prevalence of BE in white males with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). We started with estimates of the prevalence of BE and GERD, and applied the relative risk for BE in patients with GERD based on the literature. This created estimates of the true prevalence of BE in white males with GERD by decade of life. The proportion of BE missed was calculated as the difference between the prevalence and the proportion with a positive screen.ResultsThe prevalence of BE in white males with GERD was 8.9%, 12.1%, 15.3%, 18.7% and 22.0% for the third through eighth decades of life. Even after assuming no false positives, missed cases of BE were about 50% when estimated for patients of ages 50 or 60 years, and over 60% for ages of 30, 40 or 70 years. Sensitivity analysis was done for all variables in the model calculations. For ages 50 and 60 years, this resulted in values from 30.3 to 57.3% and 36.4 to 60.9%.ConclusionScreening for BE with endoscopy and FB misses approximately 50% of BE cases. More sensitive methods of BE detection or better adherence to the Seattle protocol are needed.

Prevalence and characteristics of gastroesophageal reflux disease in pregnant women

Introduction and aimsThe prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been reported to be increasing in recent years. However, there have been few reports on the prevalence of GERD during pregnancy in the Asian population. The aim of our study was to evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of GERD in Vietnamese pregnant women. Materials and methodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted at the antenatal clinic of the Nhan Dan Gia Dinh Hospital, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. Four hundred females, at various stages of pregnancy, were enrolled. GERD was diagnosed if there was troublesome heartburn and/or acid regurgitation, at least once a week, during the current pregnancy. ResultsThe overall prevalence of GERD in pregnancy was 38.5% (154/400). The prevalence of GERD in the third trimester was significantly higher than that in the second trimester (46.8% vs. 30.7%, P=0.008) and tended to be higher than its prevalence in the first trimester (46.8% vs. 35.4%, P=0.051). In the pregnant women with GERD, the frequency of regurgitation was significantly higher than that of heartburn (92.9% vs. 30.5%, P<0.001). Those typical symptoms were more prevalent in the daytime, compared with nighttime. ConclusionOur study showed that GERD was prevalent during pregnancy in Vietnam. In the pregnant women with GERD, regurgitation was much more common than heartburn, and those typical reflux symptoms occurred more frequently in the daytime, compared with nighttime.

Prevalencia y características de la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico en mujeres embarazadas

Introduction and aimsThe prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been reported to be increasing in recent years. However, there have been few reports on the prevalence of GERD during pregnancy in the Asian population. The aim of our study was to evaluate the prevalence and characteristics of GERD in Vietnamese pregnant women. Materials and methodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted at the antenatal clinic of the Nhan Dan Gia Dinh Hospital, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. Four hundred females, at various stages of pregnancy, were enrolled. GERD was diagnosed if there was troublesome heartburn and/or acid regurgitation, at least once a week, during the current pregnancy. ResultsThe overall prevalence of GERD in pregnancy was 38.5% (154/400). The prevalence of GERD in the third trimester was significantly higher than that in the second trimester (46.8% vs. 30.7%, P=0.008) and tended to be higher than its prevalence in the first trimester (46.8% vs. 35.4%, P=0.051). In the pregnant women with GERD, the frequency of regurgitation was significantly higher than that of heartburn (92.9% vs. 30.5%, P<0.001). Those typical symptoms were more prevalent in the daytime, compared with nighttime. ConclusionOur study showed that GERD was prevalent during pregnancy in Vietnam. In the pregnant women with GERD, regurgitation was much more common than heartburn, and those typical reflux symptoms occurred more frequently in the daytime, compared with nighttime.

Prevalence, risk factors and parental perceptions of gastroesophageal reflux disease in Asian infants in Singapore

Infant gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a significant cause of concern to parents. This study seeks to describe GERD prevalence in infants, evaluate possible risk factors and assess common beliefs influencing management of GERD among Asian parents. Mother-infant dyads in the Singapore PREconception Study of long-Term maternal and child Outcomes (S-PRESTO) cohort were prospectively followed from preconception to 12 months post-delivery. GERD diagnosis was ascertained through the revised Infant Gastroesophageal Reflux Questionnaire (I-GERQ-R) administered at 4 time points during infancy. Data on parental perceptions and lifestyle modifications were also collected. The prevalence of infant GERD peaked at 26.5% at age 6 weeks, decreasing to 1.1% by 12 months. Infants exclusively breastfed at 3 weeks of life had reduced odds of GERD by 1 year (adjusted odds ratio 0.43, 95% confidence interval 0.19-0.97, P=0.04). Elimination of "cold or heaty food" and "gas producing" vegetables, massaging the infant's abdomen and application of medicated oil to the infant's abdomen were quoted as major lifestyle modifications in response to GERD symptoms. Prevalence of GERD in infants is highest in the first 3 months of life, and the majority outgrow it by 1 year of age. Infants exclusively breastfed at 3 weeks had reduced odds of GERD. Cultural-based changes such as elimination of "heaty or cold" food influence parental perceptions in GERD, which are unique to the Asian population. Understanding the cultural basis for parental perceptions and health-seeking behaviours is crucial in tailoring patient education appropriately for optimal management of infant GERD.

Age-related features of gastritis activity in schoolchildren with gastroesophageal reflux disease

Aim. To study age-related features of the association of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with the activity of the inflammatory process in the gastric mucosa (GM) in schoolchildren. Materials and methods. At the first stage in the Republic of Tuva, we collected data on the presence of gastroenterological complaints in 1535 schoolchildren using a transverse method. At the second stage we performed esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy of the mucous membrane of the antrum and the body of the stomach in two hundred forty six children including 76 cases aged from 7-11 years and 170 patients aged from 12 to 17 years. Morphological assessment of gastritis was carried out according to the Sydney classification after staining biopsy sections with hematoxylin-eosin; diagnostics of Helicobacter pylori - after staining by Giemsa method. The study was approved by the ethical committee and the consent of the surveyed patients was obtained. Results. An increase in the prevalence of GERD was found in the older age group of schoolchildren - 15.6% (7-11 years old - 4.7%; p = 0.0001). GERD schoolchildren showed an insignificant tendency with age to an increase in the activity of the inflammatory process in the mucous membrane of the antrum (p = 0.3408) and the body (p = 0.3346) of the stomach. Among infected GERD schoolchildren in both age groups, gastritis with a high degree (II-III degree) of activity was more often detected than in infected schoolchildren without clinical manifestations of GERD (7-11 years old - p = 0.2551; 12-17 years old - p = 0.0536, respectively) and more often than in those uninfected GERD cases (7-11 years old - p = 0.0082; 12-17 years old - p = 0.0002). The association of highly active forms of gastritis in the body of the stomach in infected schoolchildren with manifestations of GERD has not been established. Conclusion. The presence of GERD in schoolchildren, regardless of age, aggravates the course of the inflammatory process in the antrum. When infected with Helicobacter pylori, GERD and infection in schoolchildren act as factors that mutually aggravate the inflammatory process in the antrum.