Background

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can adversely affect quality of life and, if not properly managed, can lead to complications such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal cancer.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of GERD among adults in Tabuk City, Saudi Arabia, and to identify potential risk factors contributing to its development.

Material and methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Tabuk City, Saudi Arabia, and included a total of 407 male and female adults aged 18 years or older. Data were collected through an online self-administered questionnaire in addition to paper-based questionnaires for individuals who did not have Internet access.

Results

The prevalence of GERD among the study participants was 19.2% (95% CI: 15.6–23.2%). There was a significant association between age and GERD prevalence, with an increasing prevalence among those older than 50 years of age (p < 0.001). In addition, use of NSAIDs was identified as a significant risk factor for GERD (p = 0.002), with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 2.627. Participants who reported eating within three hours of bedtime were also twice as likely to have GERD (AOR: 2.124, p = 0.014).

Conclusions

The adult population of Tabuk City, Saudi Arabia, had a relatively high prevalence of GERD. Significant risk factors for the development of GERD included older age, NSAID use, and the habit of eating later before bedtime.