Which of the following is a risk factor for GERD?

Which of the following is a risk factor for GERD?

• A. Age
• B. Obesity
• C. High fiber diet
• D. Regular physical activity

Answer: (B)

Obesity raises the risk of GERD because extra abdominal fat increases intra-abdominal pressure, which pushes stomach contents upward toward the esophagus. This pressure can weaken the barrier created by the lower esophageal sphincter and raise the likelihood of reflux. Obesity is also associated with a higher chance of a hiatal hernia, which further facilitates reflux. Weight loss often improves GERD symptoms by reducing this pressure and helping the LES function more effectively. Age isn’t a direct driver of GERD in the same way, since reflux can occur at many ages. A high fiber diet and regular physical activity are not risk factors; they tend to support digestion and weight management, which can lessen GERD symptoms.

Obesity raises the risk of GERD because extra abdominal fat increases intra-abdominal pressure, which pushes stomach contents upward toward the esophagus. This pressure can weaken the barrier created by the lower esophageal sphincter and raise the likelihood of reflux. Obesity is also associated with a higher chance of a hiatal hernia, which further facilitates reflux. Weight loss often improves GERD symptoms by reducing this pressure and helping the LES function more effectively.

Age isn’t a direct driver of GERD in the same way, since reflux can occur at many ages. A high fiber diet and regular physical activity are not risk factors; they tend to support digestion and weight management, which can lessen GERD symptoms.