[The risk factors and impact of gastroesophageal reflux disease on quality of life in general population]

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the risk factors of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in the general population and its impact on health-related quality of life (HRQOL).

Methods: A face-to-face interview was carried out in Guangdong Province using a validated Chinese version Reflux Disease Questionnaire (RDQ) to assess the prevalence of GERD. Random clustered sampling of permanent inhabitants aged 18 to 90 years was carried out under stratification of urban and suburban areas. The impact of GERD on HRQOL was evaluated using the Chinese version of SF-36. The statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 10.0 programs.

Results: A total of 83 GERD patients were collected and 166 healthy subjects were selected as control. There was no difference in prevalence between male (2.6%) and female (2.4%). There was no significant association between age and prevalence of GERD symptoms. Divorced/widowed/separated subjects (OR 4.61) and subjects with severe working burden (OR 3.43) were significantly more likely to report GERD symptoms. As compared with the general population, subjects with GERD symptoms experienced considerable impairment in quality of life.

Conclusions: Psychosocial factors may play important roles in the production of GERD symptoms. GERD has a negative impact on HRQOL.