Improved GERD Symptom Control and Medication Burden Through a Telehealth-Based Lifestyle Medicine Program

Introduction: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a prevalent condition that significantly impacts quality of life. While treatment guidelines recommend lifestyle modifications as first-line therapy, their widespread adoption and efficacy have been limited. Recommended interventions include dietary adjustments, smoking cessation, weight loss, avoiding excessive physical activity, and modifying sleeping positions. Challenges such as patient adherence and a lack of provider expertise in creating sustainable behavior change often shift therapeutic preference toward pharmacotherapy. Methods: A structured lifestyle medicine (LM) intervention for GERD incorporated the 6 LM pillars and used digital health tools, including telemedicine, to deliver a personalized intervention for GERD patients in the World Trade Center Health Program. Baseline assessment using the GERD-HRQL (Health-Related Quality of Life) survey was followed by a 12-week program involving dietary counseling, behavior change support, motivational interviewing, and symptom tracking. Outcomes included changes in GERD-HRQL scores, medication usage, and patient-reported satisfaction. Results: Participants completing this pilot program demonstrated significant improvement in overall GERD-HRQL scores (pre: 25.7, post: 13.9; P <0.005) as well as a reduction in medication use. Participant satisfaction was high, with 85% reporting the intervention as effective in managing symptoms. Adherence to the prescribed lifestyle changes was 75% by the conclusion of the program, highlighting the potential for sustained behavior change with systematic support. Conclusions: This pilot study highlights the potential of structured LM interventions to effectively address GERD symptoms in WTC patients. Improved adherence and symptom management suggest integration of LM principles into clinical practice may enhance patient outcomes and reduce reliance on pharmacotherapy.