Surfing as a risk factor for gastroesophageal reflux disease.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in surfers versus nonsurfers who participate in other sports activities based on the hypothesis that paddling in the prone position on hard surfboard surfaces leads to increased intra-abdominal pressure and GERD.


METHODS
A questionnaire survey using a modified Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale.


METHODS
Data obtained from surfers and nonsurfer athletes on the island of Oahu in the state of Hawaii.


METHODS
One hundred eighty-five surfers and 178 nonsurfers who participate in sports activities.


METHODS
Surfer or nonsurfer status, type of surfboard used, frequency of surfing, and duration of surfing experience.


METHODS
The prevalence of reflux symptoms at least twice a week (GERD).


RESULTS
The prevalence of GERD was significantly higher in short-board surfers than in nonsurfers with an odds ratio of 4.6 (28% versus 7%, P < 0.001) after adjustment for demographic variables using the multivariate regression model. GERD was more prevalent in short-boarders than long-boarders (28% and 12%, respectively). The prevalence of GERD increased significantly as both the frequency and duration of surfing experience increased (P < 0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
Surfing is strongly associated with GERD. Short-board surfing appears to have a stronger association with GERD than long-board surfing.
Norisue
Yasuhiro
Y
Department of Medicine, University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813, USA. norisue_yasuhiro@hotmail.com
Onopa
Janet
J
Kaneshiro
Marc
M
Tokuda
Yasuharu
Y
D000328:Adult; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016684:Prone Position; D012307:Risk Factors; D013550:Swimming; D055815:Young Adult