Risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease: a population-based study

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in the long term reduces the quality of life, leading to digestive diseases. The present study aims to determine the risk factors for GERD.

This study was conducted on 9,631 adults aged 35-65 years. The demographic characteristics, behavioral habits, nutritional intake, physical activity, anthropometric indices, and GERD data were extracted from the databank related to the Ravansar non-communicable diseases (RaNCD). Statistical analysis was performed using logistic regression models.

The prevalence of GERD was 10.99% (n = 1,058). The GERD was higher among older age and women. After adjusting for age and sex, the odds of GERD among current smokers was 23% higher than non-smokers. Drinking increased odds of GERD (OR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.13, 1.99). The odds of GERD among depressed individuals were 46% higher than non-depressed. In addition, a significant relationship was observed between the high intake of sweets and desserts with increased GERD (OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.03). Further, high intake of fiber (OR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.97, 0.99) and dairy (OR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.98, 0.99) was related to reducing the odds of GERD. Furthermore, a significant relationship was reported between the waist hip ratio (WHR) and visceral fat area (VFA) with increased odds of GERD. Finally, the physical activity level was inversely related to GERD.

Based on the results, smoking, alcohol, inactivity, high intake of sweets and desserts, low intake of fiber, depression, visceral fat, and obesity are considered as risk factors for GERD. Modifying lifestyle and behavioral habits prevent GERD.