Epidemiological study of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease: reflux in spouse as a risk factor

Summary Background Gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a growing health‐care problem with variable distribution. Aim To assess GERD prevalence and risk factors and their possible correlation with pathophysiology in a population‐based study. Methods Individuals aged 18–65 years were enrolled through random cluster sampling in Tehran. Previously validated self‐administered questionnaires were used. Results Of the 2500 questionnaires, 2057 were analysed (mean age: 34.8 ± 13.0 years, 55.1% female). Frequent GERD was seen in 18.2%. Minor symptoms increased prevalence. Female gender (OR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.01–2.41), BMI >30 kg/m2 (OR: 1.79, 95% CI: 1.03–3.12), less education (OR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.02–2.27), smoking (OR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.12–2.99), NSAID use (OR: 4.23, 95% CI: 1.66–10.74) and GERD in spouse (OR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.18–2.82) were associated with frequent GERD on multivariable analysis. GERD in first‐degree relatives (OR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.23–2.43) and asthma (OR: 4.09, 95% CI: 1.27–13.15) correlated with infrequent GERD. Minor symptoms correlated with GERD history in first‐degree relatives, coffee consumption and NSAID use. Prevalence in the past 3 months was similar to that in the past 12 months (P