The role of obesity in gastroesophageal reflux disease and Barrett's esophagus.
The prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and related disorders has been increasing worldwide, particularly in Western populations where a parallel rise in obesity prevalence has been reported. As weight gain often overlaps with the GERD-related symptoms, several recent studies investigated the significance of this correlation, mainly using meta-analyses. Here, we discuss the large amount of evidence linking obesity and GERD-related symptoms, providing potential mechanisms for their co-occurrence. Particular attention is given also to the association between obesity, Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma development.
Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, University of Bologna, Italy.
Leonardo Henry
LH
Eusebi
Lorenzo
L
Fuccio
Franco
F
Bazzoli
D001471:Barrett Esophagus / Q000150:complications*; D004938:Esophageal Neoplasms / Q000150:complications; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D050152:Intra-Abdominal Fat / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D009765:Obesity / Q000150:complications*