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Acid Reflux Is Rising Around the World – Over 1 Billion May Be Affected by 2050

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Global, regional and national burdens of gastroesophageal reflux disease from 1990 to 2021 and projections to 2050 a finding from the global DOI 10.1186s12889-025-251

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), often called acid reflux, is becoming more common. It causes burning in the chest (heartburn), sour taste in the mouth, and other digestion problems. A major new study looked at how GERD has changed over time and what it might look like in the future.

In 1990, about 450 million people worldwide had GERD. By 2021, that number grew to over 825 million. And by 2050, it may affect more than 1.2 billion people. That means about 1 in every 8 people could be living with this condition.

Women are more affected than men. Older people have the highest rates, especially those in their 70s. But most GERD cases are found in people between 35 and 39 years old.

The study also found that GERD causes a lot of suffering. It doesn’t usually lead to death, but it does reduce quality of life. It can affect sleep, diet, and daily activities.

Poorer countries are seeing faster increases in GERD cases. This could be due to changes in diet, weight gain, or access to health care.

GERD is common, but treatable. Simple lifestyle changes, like eating smaller meals, avoiding certain foods, and sleeping with your head raised, can help. In some cases, medicines or surgery are needed.

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Dr. Harsh J Shah

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Dr Harsh Shah - GI & HPB Oncosurgeon in India
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