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Simultaneous Laryngopharyngeal and Conventional Esophageal pH Monitoring
Published on: December 14, 2020
Association between masticatory dysfunction and gastroesophageal reflux disease: A population-based study in the
Luana Soares Kuze1, Fernando Fornari1, Kauê Collares1
1Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Dental School, University of Passo Fundo, Passo Fundo, Brazil.
Elderly individuals with chewing difficulties, often due to tooth loss, have a higher prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This study highlights the link between masticatory dysfunction and GERD in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Gastroenterology
- Oral Health
Background:
- Dental issues like caries and periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss and impaired chewing, particularly in the elderly.
- Poorly chewed food intake may exacerbate gastric emptying delays and contribute to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between masticatory dysfunction and GERD in elderly individuals residing in a rural area of southern Brazil.
Main Methods:
- A census-based study included 455 elderly participants (93.1% response rate) from a southern Brazilian rural city.
- Data collection involved a GERD symptoms questionnaire and an oral examination.
- Masticatory dysfunction was assessed by chewing difficulty for various food types, alongside self-perceived chewing ability and tooth loss.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of GERD in the study population was 36.9%.
- GERD showed a significant association with chewing difficulty for vegetables (PR=1.54), meats (PR=1.34), and cereals (PR=1.43).
- GERD was also associated with xerostomia (dry mouth) (PR=1.63) and being female (PR=1.35).
Conclusions:
- A high prevalence of GERD was observed in elderly individuals with reduced dentition and associated chewing difficulties.
- The findings indicate a significant association between masticatory dysfunction and GERD in this elderly rural population.
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