BACKGROUND Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical spectrum, prevalence, and some of the variables that are supposed to be the risk factors of this chronic disorder. METHODS This population- based cross-sectional study was conducted in a one-stage randomized clustered sample of adult inhabitants in Kerman city in 2011-2012. A total of 2265 subjects with age range of 15-85 years were enrolled. Face to face interview was performed for all the subjects. GERD was defined as at least weekly heart burn and/or acid regurgitation during the past year. Association of GERD with factors like demographic variables, medical condition, diet and life habits were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 2265 subjects including 988 (43.8%) male and 1275 (56.3%) female patients were evaluated. The prevalence of GERD was 28%. The prevalence was higher in female patients and with aging. There was also a significant association between GERD and the following risk factors: lower educational level (p <0.0001), higher body mass index (p =003), presence of depression(p<0.0001), and anxiety (p <0=0001). CONCLUSION GERD as a common disorder in our region was seen more in elderly and female patients and was associated with some anthropometric, metabolic, medical conditions, and behavioral habits.
Keywords: Gastroesophageal reflux disease; General population; Prevalence; Risk factors.