GERD is Common and Causes Significant Quality of Life Impairment: Results from Outpatients in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is reported to occur in 10-20% of general population in Western countries and in about 5% in Asian countries. There is little data regarding its prevalence, pattern, associated factors and impact on the quality of life in African countries. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, pattern, quality of life and factors associated with GERD among outpatients in the city of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. Methods: Between 01 June 2013 and 31 July 2013, a total of 1062 adults aged 18 years and above were recruited into this cross-sectional study and completed Swahili-language self-administered questionnaires. The Frequency Scale for the Symptoms of GERD questionnaire was used as a diagnostic tool for GERD and quality of life was assessed using the Quality of Life in Reflux and Dyspepsia (QOLRAD) questionnaire. Results: The mean age ± standard deviation of the study participants was 46.0±19.5years and 60.5% were females. The prevalence of GERD was 31.5% and was higher among females compared to males (p = 0.001). The quality of life in patients with GERD was lower in all five domains of the QOLRAD questionnaire. About two thirds (59.7%) of patients with GERD had previously sought medical advice and 59.6% had used medications for their GERD symptoms. Conclusions: The prevalence of GERD was high in this patient population and was significantly higher among females compared to men. Participants with GERD demonstrated significant impairment in the quality of life.