Prevalence and Risk Factor of Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease among Hail Population, Saudi Arabia

Aims: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that develops when the contents of the stomach reflux into the esophagus due to large hiatal hernia or lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction. The common symptoms of the disease include heartburn and regurgitation. It takes place mainly among youngers, females, and obese people. The aims of the study include GERD prevalence among Hail population and the related risk factors.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Between July to December 2020.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study conducted with 704 subjects aged more than 15 years, through self-administered questionnaire consisting of 22 questions. The questionnaire included demographic data, GERD clinical symptoms, and individual behaviour. Statistical data analyzed by using SPSS version 22.

Results: Out of 704 subjects, nearly half of the participants were males (51.7%). GERD was found in 408 (58%) participants among them 276 (39.2%) had mild symptoms, 9.9%, had moderate symptoms and 62 (8.8%) had severe condition. Most significant predictors of GERD (P <0.05) were Females with chronic health problems, anxiety, and having Spicy food. The participants with sports activity had less risk to develop GERD.

Conclusion: The results showed high prevalence of GERD among Hail population with many significant predictors. Public health providers should increase awareness about GERD and its significant effects on community.