Abstract

Background and aim: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders presenting in general medical practice which adversely affects the quality of life. We Aimed to determine the prevalence of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and its risk factors among medical students in Medina, Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2021 using a pre-designed questionnaire distributed among medical students in Medina, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire was composed of questions regarding sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics. The diagnosis of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease was made using the GERDQ questionnaire. The data were analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 27.

Results: Out of the 385 participants, the majority were females (65.7%). Based on ≥8 GERDQ score, 14.8% had Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. The only significant risk factor was family history (36.8%). The prevalence of the remaining factors among the Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease group in the following descending order: skipping breakfast (66.7%), normal body mass index (62.5%), sleeping

Key words: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, Prevalence, GERDQ, Risk factors, medical students