Prevalence and impact of symptoms suggestive of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Few studies have focused on the impact of gastroesophageal reflux disease o n general health and on work absenteeism. Our aim was to evaluate the preva lence and severity of symptoms suggestive of gastroesophageal reflux diseas e in two samples of Italian employees, We interviewed 424 subjects of S, Ma tteo Hospital staff and 344 subjects of the Military Factory of Pavia regar ding the frequency and severity of heartburn and acid regurgitation during the last 12 months. Subjects were specifically asked whether symptoms inter fered with the quality of work activities or determined work absenteeism. I n all, 91% of eligible subjects responded. The prevalence rate per 100 of a ny heartburn or regurgitation experienced at least monthly was 21, This val ue increased to 45% taking into consideration symptoms experienced occasion ally. Mild or moderate symptoms were more frequent than severe symptoms (P < 0.001). Only 2.6% of subjects answered that symptoms have a negative infl uence on the quality of their work. No work absenteeism was recorded. The s tudy confirms that typical gastroesophageal reflux symptoms are common cond itions, but mainly of mild or moderate degree.