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Does massive obesity promote abnormal gastroesophageal reflux?
L Lundell1, M Ruth, N Sandberg
1Department of Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, University of Gothenburg, Sweden.
Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|August 1, 1995
Summary
Massively obese patients do not show a higher prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Studies found no significant difference in reflux symptoms or pH-metry data compared to healthy controls.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Obesity Medicine
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition.
- The relationship between massive obesity and GERD prevalence requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively evaluate the prevalence of GERD in massively obese patients undergoing gastroplasty.
- To compare GERD indicators in obese individuals with a healthy control group.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 50 massively obese patients (BMI 42.5 +/- 5.2 kg/m2).
- Utilized standardized questionnaires, 24-hour ambulatory pH-metry, and endoscopy.
- Compared data with 29 age- and sex-matched healthy controls.
Main Results:
- Obese patients reported heartburn (37%) and acid regurgitation (28%), mostly mild.
- No macroscopic esophagitis was observed in any patient.
- Ambulatory pH-metry showed no significant difference in reflux variables between obese patients and controls.
Conclusions:
- Massive overweight is not associated with an increased prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
- Obesity does not appear to significantly alter GERD metrics as measured by pH-metry.