Korean J Gastroenterol.  2002 Jun;39(6):393-401.

Prevalence, Clinical Manifestations, and Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Korea

• Jeon SG
• Rhee PL

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by the presence of esophageal mucosal injury or by the occurrence of reflux-induced symptoms which are severe enough to impair quality of life. GERD is a common GI disorder in the West, but not in the East including Korea. Heartburn is the most common symptom of GERD in the West, but it is rare in a substantial proportion of patients with GERD in Korea. Epigastric soreness or pain of Korean patients could result from gastroesophageal reflux. The suppression of acid is the mainstay of therapy for GERD. Proton pump inhibitors can be an attractive choice of initial treatment because of rapid symptom relief and healing of esophagitis. Because GERD is a chronic relapsing disorder, most of patients require long-term management. For long-term management of GERD, step-down approach is recommendable considering clinical and economic effectiveness.

Keyword

Gastroesophageal reflux disease; Esophagitis; Prevalence; Heartburn; Proton pump inhibitor

MeSH Terms

Esophagitis
Gastroesophageal Reflux*
Heartburn
Humans
Korea*
Prevalence*
Proton Pump Inhibitors
Quality of Life
Proton Pump Inhibitors