Comparison of General Psychological Wellbeing Schedule between Patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Healthy Controls

Abstract

Background :

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases related to the psychological status of the patient. The aim of this study is to assess the relation of GERD with general psychological wellbeing (GPWB).

Materials and Methods :

This population study was performed among adult residents of Tehran, Iran in 2013. We invited high school and university educated healthy appearing subjects who were members of a health surveillance study in district number 11 of Tehran to reply to the GPWB query. Participants were divided into two groups, GERD patients and controls. We compared the dimensions of GPWB among these two groups.

Results :

A total of 135 persons with a mean age of 35.5 ± 13 years were recruited for study participation. Approximately 30% of men and 23% of women had at least weekly GERD symptoms. Anxiety was significantly more common among GERD patients than controls. General health and positive well-being were significantly impaired among GERD patients.

Conclusion :

Assessment of self-representation of wellbeing and distress in GERD patients and consideration of new, relevant therapeutic avenues are important for the control of GERD.