What is a risk factor for GERD?

What is a risk factor for GERD?

• A. Obesity
• B. Spinach
• C. Vitamin deficiencies
• D. Weight loss

Answer: (A)

Obesity increases the risk of GERD because extra abdominal fat raises intra-abdominal pressure, which promotes the backward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus and can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter. This mechanical effect makes reflux more likely and helps explain why obesity is a well-established risk factor for GERD. Weight loss, in contrast, tends to reduce reflux by lowering this pressure. Spinach and vitamin deficiencies aren’t recognized risk factors for GERD, and weight loss would not be considered a risk factor—it would more likely improve symptoms.

Obesity increases the risk of GERD because extra abdominal fat raises intra-abdominal pressure, which promotes the backward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus and can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter. This mechanical effect makes reflux more likely and helps explain why obesity is a well-established risk factor for GERD. Weight loss, in contrast, tends to reduce reflux by lowering this pressure. Spinach and vitamin deficiencies aren’t recognized risk factors for GERD, and weight loss would not be considered a risk factor—it would more likely improve symptoms.