GERD and the Effect of Metabolic Risk Factors

The presence of metabolic risk factors increases the likelihood of disease progression.

Recent data suggest that the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease in the U.S. is increasing by 5% annually (Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2007; 5:17). Although GERD has a substantial effect on public health, the natural course of this disorder is not well defined.

To examine the effect of metabolic risk factors on the natural course of GERD, researchers analyzed data on 3669 patients in Taiwan who, as part of a voluntary health-promotion program, underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at least twice during the course of the study. Patients were excluded if they had received acid-suppressive medication during the 4 months preceding the initial endoscopy. A three-state Markov model was used to estimate transition rates from nonerosiv…

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors