An analytical study on Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease among Postgraduate Medical Students in India

Context: The challenging junior residency program can have adverse effects on general health and wellbeing of resident doctors. In addition, changes in lifestyle and psychological stress affect food habits and sleep patterns of these doctors. All of these factors are very effectual in predisposing resident doctors to Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) which negatively impacts their health and quality of life. Aims: (1) To estimate the prevalence of GERD among postgraduate medical students of Goa. (2) To study the risk factors associated with GERD among these students. Methods and Material: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a medical college over a period of 2 months among 186 postgraduate students. Data was collected using a pre-designed, pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire after obtaining informed consent. Data was analysed using STATA software version 14. Results: The prevalence of GERD among the study participants was 51% in the last 4 weeks. The most commonly reported symptoms were heartburn and regurgitation. Only three significantly associated risk factors were found to be positively predict the presence of GERD symptoms i.e., family history of GERD, less time for meals while on duty and oftentimes perceived stress. Conclusions: The present study revealed a high prevalence of GERD amongst postgraduate medical students of Goa which highlights the need for implementation of competent educational strategies to manage academic and clinical responsibilities to curb stress and promote healthy lifestyle.