Introduction to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Risk Factors for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

A risk factor is anything that increases the likelihood of a person developing a disease or condition. Although the exact cause of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is unknown, there are several risk factors that may predispose some people to developing GERD. These risk factors can be grouped into genetic factors and lifestyle factors.

Genetic Factors

Genetic factors are thought to predispose some people to GERD because the disease tends to run in families. Evidence supporting a genetic basis for GERD also comes from studies involving twins conducted in Europe which demonstrated a significantly higher concordance of GERD among identical twins compared to fraternal twins. Research is ongoing to try to identify the genes that may be involved in GERD.

Lifestyle Factors

There is also evidence that certain lifestyle factors may predispose some people to developing GERD. These lifestyle factors include:

• Obesity
• Smoking

• Certain foods

  • fatty foods
  • chocolate
  • tomato sauce
  • peppermint
  • onions

• Certain beverages

  • coffee
  • tea
  • alcohol