Main Article Content
Association between Body Mass Index and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Blacks
Abstract
Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD] is a common disorder with very low rates in Africa and Asia, and high rates in North America and Europe. Several studies have demonstrated a positive link between body mass index [BMI] and reflux symptoms. The aim of this study was to establish the association between BMI and GERD in black subjects.
Method: Three hundred and ninety-nine (399) subjects were studied using a validated questionnaire to determine reflux symptoms, frequency and severity of symptoms, as well as presence of nocturnal symptoms. The BMI was estimated from the weight in kg divided by the square of the height in metre.
Results: Out of the 399 subjects, only 112 (28.1%) had symptoms of GERD, 36(32.1%) were males, while 76(67.9%) were females. Among the symptomatic subjects, 39(35.1%) had BMI 25kg/m2. The mean BMI (24.4±4.9kg/m2) of those with symptoms of GERD was higher than the BMI (23.6±4.9kg/m2) of those without GERD.
Conclusion: We found a weak association between body mass index and reflux symptoms. But, in symptomatic subjects it was observed that as the BMI increased, the severity as well as the frequency and the occurrence of nocturnal symptoms also increased.
Method: Three hundred and ninety-nine (399) subjects were studied using a validated questionnaire to determine reflux symptoms, frequency and severity of symptoms, as well as presence of nocturnal symptoms. The BMI was estimated from the weight in kg divided by the square of the height in metre.
Results: Out of the 399 subjects, only 112 (28.1%) had symptoms of GERD, 36(32.1%) were males, while 76(67.9%) were females. Among the symptomatic subjects, 39(35.1%) had BMI 25kg/m2. The mean BMI (24.4±4.9kg/m2) of those with symptoms of GERD was higher than the BMI (23.6±4.9kg/m2) of those without GERD.
Conclusion: We found a weak association between body mass index and reflux symptoms. But, in symptomatic subjects it was observed that as the BMI increased, the severity as well as the frequency and the occurrence of nocturnal symptoms also increased.
