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Heartburn: community perceptions
T D Bolin1, M G Korman, J Hansky
1The Gut Foundation, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia. TD.Bolin@unsw.edu.au
Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
|March 17, 2000
Summary
Heartburn is prevalent in Australia, affecting 56% of adults. Lifestyle factors like diet and stress trigger symptoms, with antacids being the most common treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Heartburn is a common gastrointestinal symptom with significant impact on quality of life.
- Understanding its prevalence and triggers in the Australian population is crucial for public health initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of heartburn in the Australian community.
- To identify factors precipitating heartburn symptoms.
- To document the medications used for heartburn treatment.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving telephone interviews with 1200 Australian adults (aged 18+).
- Data collected on heartburn experience, severity, precipitating factors, and current treatment strategies.
- Interviews were conducted over a single weekend in 1996.
Main Results:
- 56% of respondents reported experiencing heartburn at some point; 37% had symptoms every 4-6 months.
- Heartburn prevalence increased with age and was more common in men (40.7%) than women (32.6%).
- Common triggers included spicy/rich foods, stress, alcohol, overeating, pregnancy, smoking, and coffee; antacids were the most frequent treatment.
Conclusions:
- Heartburn is a common condition in Australia, frequently linked to lifestyle factors such as diet and stress.
- Antacids represent the primary treatment modality for heartburn sufferers in the Australian community.
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