Obesity correlates with gastroesophageal reflux

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Obesity Medicine
• Surgical Research

Background:

• Gastroesophageal reflux is a common condition.
• Morbid obesity is a significant health concern associated with various complications.
• The relationship between obesity and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate symptomatic and objective evidence of gastroesophageal reflux in morbidly obese patients.
• To determine the correlation between body weight, body mass index, and gastroesophageal reflux parameters.
• To assess esophageal function in patients seeking bariatric surgery.

Main Methods:

• Esophageal manometry and pH monitoring were performed on 30 morbidly obese patients.
• Patients were assessed for symptoms of heartburn.
• Objective reflux parameters were correlated with patient weight and body mass index.

Main Results:

• Patients with abnormal esophageal acid exposure (pH < 4 for >5% of time) weighed significantly more (165.2 vs 129.8 kg) and had higher BMIs (56.5 vs 48.3 kg/m2) than those with normal acid exposure.
• Morbidly obese patients with abnormal reflux scores had higher weight and BMI compared to those with normal scores.
• Lower esophageal sphincter pressure was lower in patients with abnormal reflux findings (12.5 mm Hg) compared to those with normal findings (15.5 mm Hg).

Conclusions:

• A significant correlation exists between higher weight and body mass index and the presence of gastroesophageal reflux in morbidly obese patients.
• Objective measures of gastroesophageal reflux are associated with increased body weight and BMI.
• These findings highlight the impact of obesity on esophageal function and reflux severity.