GERD – A 21st Century Disease

Abstract

Introduction. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders, affecting 20–40% of adults in developed countries. In Poland, over 800,000 cases of GERD were reported in 2023, with the number of patients steadily increasing. Approximately 34% of primary care patients may have GERD, of whom 10% are referred to specialists with complications.

Aim. Analysis of the Determinants of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Contemporary Society

Materials and Methods. Analysis of materials collected from the PubMed database, data from the Health Needs Maps 2022-2026, books, and other scientific articles.

Review. GERD is a chronic condition in which acidic stomach contents reflux into the esophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn, pain, and regurgitation. If untreated, it can lead to complications and reduce quality of life. The development of the disease is influenced by non-modifiable factors (age, sex, genetics) and modifiable factors—mainly lifestyle, diet, overweight, stress, and substance use. Chronic diseases and the use of certain medications can worsen symptoms. Diagnosis is based mainly on typical symptoms and tests such as pharmacological tests, endoscopy, and pH-metry. Treatment primarily involves lifestyle modification, pharmacotherapy, and in difficult cases, endoscopic or surgical interventions.

Conclusions. The increasing prevalence of GERD reflects the impact of modern health and environmental trends on the digestive system, making it not only a medical but also a social problem. Effective prevention requires preventive actions that can significantly reduce the incidence, improve quality of life, and relieve the healthcare system.