Gastro-esophageal reflux disease in northwestern Tabriz, Iran

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), diagnosed based on the presence of frequent heartburn, in the general population in northwest area of Tabriz, Iran. Methods: In this cross-sectional study performed during May 2000. 4207 persons were chosen by systematic randomized sampling from a total population of approximately 230,000 persons. Heartburn occurring at least thrice in the recent two weeks was taken as evidence of GERD. Symptoms were correlated with the individual's diet. Results: The prevalence of GERD was 2.7%. In 80% of them, specific types of food aggravated heartburn. Waterbrash (42.8%) was the most common associated symptom. Conclusion: The prevalence of GERD in Tabriz is less than that reported from Western countries but is similar to that in other Asian countries.