Open AccessMetabolic syndrome and gastro-esophageal reflux: A link towards a growing interest in developed countries
Author(s) -
Enzo Ierardi,
Rosa Rosania,
Mariangela Zotti,
Simonetta Principe,
Giulio Laonigro,
Floriana Giorgio,
Vincenzo De Francesco,
C. Panella
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
world journal of gastrointestinal pathophysiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2150-5330
DOI - 10.4291/wjgp.v1.i3.91
Subject(s) - gerd , medicine , metabolic syndrome , epidemiology , disease , pathophysiology , insulin resistance , obesity , reflux , intensive care medicine
The aim of this Editorial is to describe the growing possibility of a link between gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) and metabolic syndrome on the light of recent epidemiological and pathophysiological evidence. The state of the art of GERD is described, based on recent definitions, pathophysiological evidence, epidemiology in developed countries, clinical subtypes together with a diagnostic approach specifically focussed on the appropriateness of endoscopy. Metabolic syndrome is accurately defined and the pivotal role of insulin resistance is emphasized. The strong relationship between GERD and metabolic syndrome has been pathophysiologically analyzed, taking into account the role of obesity, mechanical factors and metabolic changes. Data collected by our group regarding eating habits and GERD are briefly summarized at the end of a pathophysiological analysis. The literature on the subject strongly supports the possibility that lifestyle and eating habits may be involved in both GERD and metabolic syndrome in developed countries.