Marijuana Use as a Lifestyle Factor Associated With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Complications

Introduction: GERD is one of the most diagnosed digestive disorders globally, with an estimated 20% prevalence in the US. Marijuana use in the US, and globally, has shown a consistent uptrend. This study aims to detect any relationship between marijuana use and GERD complications. Methods: We used the National Inpatient Sample dataset for 2016-2020 for this retrospective study. Our outcomes were reflux esophagitis and Barrett's esophagus, with Marijuana use being the predictor variable. We performed a chi-square test, descriptive analysis, as well as simple and multiple logistic regressions to assess associations. Results: 4,633,135 adults were diagnosed with GERD. Approximately 0.16% of patients had reflux esophagitis, while 1.18% had Barrett's esophagus. Alcohol (2.04%), marijuana (1.96%), and more than one-tenth used cigarettes (12.21%). Majority of the study population are female (57.56%), white (77.51%) and ≥65 years (58.03%). Marijuana users (aOR = 1.801 [1.389-2.335], P < .0001) were more likely to have reflux esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus (1.226 [1.054-1.426], 0.0081) compared to non-users. Conclusion: Marijuana use is associated with GERD complications. Therefore, we recommend educating patients with GERD on making healthy lifestyle choices, such as abstaining from or moderating the use of substances like marijuana. Additional studies are required to define safe amounts of recreational marijuana.