Gastro-esophageal reflux disease in northwestern Tabriz, Iran.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of gastroesophageal 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.