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. 2024 Apr 28;16(4):e59211.
doi: 10.7759/cureus.59211. eCollection 2024 Apr.

A Study on the Prevalence of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux in Saudi Arabia

Ali A Ahbail  1 , Hamzah Alhajuj  1 , Tariq Alharbi  1 , Abdulrhman M Alghamdi  1 , Hosam Amoodi  2 , Wed M Salah  3 , Mariam Al Sheikah  2
Affiliations

A Study on the Prevalence of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux in Saudi Arabia

Ali A Ahbail et al. Cureus. .

Abstract

Introduction Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a condition characterized by the backflow of gastric contents rising through the esophagus, affecting the aerodigestive tract and leading to throat symptoms such as hoarseness, chronic cough, and throat clearing. LPR is recognized as a separate condition from gastroesophageal reflux disease, despite the fact that they both involve the backflow of the stomach contents as their primary pathology. Our study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of LPR within the population of Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using an electronic questionnaire from August to November 2023, involving participants from all five regions of Saudi Arabia. A total of 1140 participants completed the questionnaire, which included the Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) to assess the prevalence of LPR. Results LPR was found to be prevalent in 31.2% of the study population, with the most common associated demographics being female gender (p = 0.032) and adults aged 36-45 years (p = 0.006). However, no significant relationship was observed based on region of residence or other demographic factors such as education level or occupation. Conclusion LPR has a high prevalence in the population of Saudi Arabia. Therefore, further research and awareness about this condition are warranted to better understand its impact, improve diagnosis, and develop appropriate management strategies.

Keywords: gastroesophageal reflux disease (gerd); laryngopharyngeal reflux; laryngopharyngeal reflux disease; prevalence; reflux symptom index; saudi arabia.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Data enrollment
Figure 2
Figure 2. The percentage of Reflux Symptom Index items among study participants
Figure 3
Figure 3. Prevalence of laryngopharyngeal reflux in Saudi Arabia
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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