Prevalence of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease in Spain and associated factors

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Abstract
Summary: Background: The prevalence of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), has not been characterized in Spain.Aim: To measure the prevalence of GERD in Spain, and the factors associated with it, by means of a primary care‐based study.Methods: An epidemiological, multicentre, cross‐sectional, population‐based study. A self‐administered questionnaire was sent out to randomly selected patients. Data were statistically analysed to provide the prevalence of GERD and to compare it with that of gastro‐oesophageal reflux symptoms. Factors associated with GERD were studied using logistic regression models.Results: The response rate was 45%. The prevalence of GERD was 15% (95% CI: 13.2–16.2). When compared with gastro‐oesophageal reflux symptoms patients, those with GERD experienced more intense symptoms (moderate–severe: 35% vs. 8%, P < 0.001) and suffered heartburn more frequently both at day and night (48% vs. 25%, P < 0.001) and for longer period of times (69% vs. 62%, P = 0.057). A body mass index of >25% (odds ratio: 1.07; 95% CI: 1.03–1.11) was the only independent variable associated with GERD. The risk of suffering GERD increases by 7% for each kg/m2 that the body mass index increases.Conclusions: The prevalence of GERD among the Spanish population is 15%. Body mass index is the only risk factor significantly associated with GERD.

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