Almost half the chance of developing acid reflux disease, which doctors refer to as GERD, may be down to our genes, and not just a diet of lager and curry, a twin study in the journal Gut suggests.
Acid reflux disease (gastro-esophagal reflux disease) is one of the most common digestive disorders in the developed world, with about one in five people suffering from the characteristic heartburn and/or regurgitation of acid into the esophagus or mouth every week. Regular sufferers have an increased risk of esophagal cancer.
The findings (July, 2003) were based on 2000 pairs of identical and non-identical twins, who completed a questionnaire on the type and frequency of gastrointestinal symptoms and potential risk factors for acid reflux. These included smoking, excess alcohol, being overweight, and certain drugs, including some heart drugs, oral contraceptives, and drugs for anxiety.
On the basis of this study, and having taken account of known risk factors, the authors conclude that 43% of the chance of developing acid reflux is attributable to genes. Other research seems to back up their findings, say the authors, with previous studies recording several family members with GERD or even esophagal cancer.