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Risk factors for Barrett's esophagus: a case-control study
Massimo Conio1, Rosangela Filiberti, Sabrina Blanchi
1Department of Gastroenterology, National Cancer Research Institute, Largo R. Benzi, 10, 16132 Genoa, Italy. mxconio@tin.it
International Journal of Cancer
|January 5, 2002
Summary
Chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms lasting over 13 years, hiatal hernia, and alcohol consumption are key risk factors for developing Barrett's esophagus (BE) and esophagitis (E).
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Epidemiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Barrett's esophagus (BE) is an acquired condition linked to chronic gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).
- Environmental factors and lifestyle significantly influence BE development, particularly in Western populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of individual characteristics and lifestyle habits on the occurrence of BE.
- To analyze risk factors associated with BE and esophagitis (E) in an Italian cohort.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter case-control study involving 149 BE patients, 143 E patients, and 308 controls.
- Data collected via questionnaires on lifestyle, medical history, GERD symptoms, and socio-economic status.
- Multivariate analysis used to identify significant associations and risk factors.
Main Results:
- Frequent weekly GERD symptoms and hiatal hernia were significantly associated with both BE and E.
- Ulcers showed a significant association with BE.
- Long-standing GERD symptoms (over 13 years) increased the likelihood of BE compared to E.
- Spirit consumption was linked to increased risk in patients with esophagitis.
Conclusions:
- Long-standing GERD symptoms, hiatal hernia, and alcohol consumption are identified as potential risk factors for BE and E.
- These findings highlight the importance of managing GERD and considering lifestyle factors in BE pathogenesis.
- The study provides valuable epidemiological data on BE risk factors in the Italian population.