Ps01.059: reflux related symptoms are less common in south-east hungarian subjects, than expected on the basis of epidemiologic studies of the western countries

Abstract Background Most population based epidemiologic studies indicate approximately 20% prevalence of Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) related typical symptoms appearing at least monthly. Since most of these works were carried out in the western countries, a little is known about Central-Europe, where substantial part of the population still lives outside of the larger cities. The aim of the study was to obtain population-based data on the prevalence of GER related symptoms in South-East Hungary. Methods Two thousand and two consecutive blood donor volunteers (M/F: 1156/846, mean age: 39 (17–66) years) were enrolled. Data collection was carried out by means of a questionnaire. Typical (heartburn, regurgitation) and atypical (esophageal, extraesophageal) symptoms were assessed. Results Typical symptoms of GER such as heartburn and acidic regurgitation were reported by 22% (450/2002) and 17% (333/2002) of the studied healthy subjects. The 63% and 51% of them had such symptoms less than once per month. Monthly heartburn episodes were reported by 14, and weekly by 6 percent of the cases, while acidic regurgitation occurred in 8 and 3 percent respectively. Of the atypical (esophageal and extraesophageal) symptoms upper airway symptoms were the most prevalent (19%), although only 13% had such symptom at least monthly. Globus occurred in 6%, while other atypical symptoms were reported by less than 5% of the subjects. Typical GER symptoms occurred more frequently in females, coffee drinkers and subjects with moderate obesity. Current and former smoking and alcohol-use were associated with increased GER symptom prevalence. Conclusion In contrast to the studies carried out in the western countries South-East Hungarian subjects seem to have less GER related symptoms. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.