Journal of Gastrointestinal & Digestive System
Open Access

Abstract

Background: Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common health problem worldwide and is associated with Barrettâ??s esophagus and is identified as a risk factor for esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). There is scarcity of data from the developing countries on the prevalence of GERD. Most literature in Middle East comes from Iran which reports a high prevalence of 33% compared to the west of 28%, even though the prevalence of EAC is much lower. Hence, the aim of this study was to look at the prevalence of GERD in the Saudi Arabia (KSA) Methods: Cross-section survey of the western region of KSA was done using a validated GerdQ questionnaire by a team of researchers who randomly approached participants at schools, hospitals, offices, government establishment and shopping malls. Apart, from the questionnaire demographic details, comorbidities and medication history was collected. Results: Of the 1423 participants who filled the GerdQ, 425 were excluded due to incomplete answers. The mean age of the 998 participants included was 29.9 years with a male to female ratio of 1:2. Based on the GerdQ questionnaire with a score of â?¥8, the prevalence of GERD was 23.47% (234). Participants who were obese had a higher prevalence of GERD than who were not (BMIâ?¥30 vs. <30 kg/m², p=0.01). In addition, having diabetes mellitus or hypertension was associated with higher prevalence of GERD compared to does who did not (42.02% vs. 29.09%, p=0.02 and 53.12% vs. 21.43%, p=0.0001 respectively). However, history of chronic lung disease, ischemic heart disease, smoking or use of non-steroids anti-inflammatory medication was not related to higher GERD prevalence. Conclusion: The prevalence of GERD is the Gulf region is similar to that found in the west and is associated with other comorbidities. This raises the contention that GERD is more prevalent than actually recognized and probably under treated.

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