Epidemiological features of gastro-esophageal reflux disease in Iran based on general population

AIM The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiology of GERD base on population study in Tehran providence. BACKGROUND Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common and chronic problem. Recent reports from developing countries indicate increment in the incidence and prevalence of the disease over the past. PATIENTS AND METHODS This study was a cross-sectional household survey conducted from May 2006 to December 2007 in Tehran province, Iran. Participants completed a valid gastro-esophageal reflux Questionnaire. The questionnaire included personal and family characteristics such as age, gender, and educational status. In addition, interviewers asked them regarding 10 GI symptoms. RESULTS Altogether 18180 individuals participated in this cross-sectional study. The mean ± SD age of participant was 38.7±17.1 and 9072 (49.9%) were women. The prevalence of GERD was 8.85 (8.43-9.26). There was significant relationship between age, sex, marital and educational status with GERD. GERD symptoms were more common in women, older people, individuals with low education and married people. There was overlap between GERD, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and uninvestigated dyspepsia (UD). CONCLUSION According to our finding although the prevalence of GERD in our population is less than other studies, this prevalence is increasing in recent years.