Hispanics Suffer From Acid Reflux Disease.

6.1 million Hispanics in the United States suffer from acid reflux disease(1), however a survey sponsored by AstraZeneca that was conducted in five U.S. cities with large Hispanic density, reveals that more than sixty percent (66%) of Hispanics are not familiar with common terms to describe the condition known as acid reflux. According to the new survey, although Hispanics are familiar with the symptoms of acid reflux, they don’t know that these symptoms may be part of a potentially more serious medical problem.

Suffering frequent symptoms of acid reflux, may not only affect everyday productivity and sleep, but can also cause potentially serious damage to the esophagus if not treated properly.

Acid reflux occurs when harsh acid passes back up into the esophagus, causing the inner lining of the esophagus to become irritated. A valve localized between the esophagus and the stomach called the Lower Esophageal Sphincter (LES) muscle stops closing properly, allowing the stomach acid to go up to the esophagus. This can irritate the esophagus. Despite low awareness of the condition, twenty-one percent (21%) of people interviewed said they suffer from acid reflux related symptoms; two or more times a week.

“Acid reflux may be serious and can be treated. It affects approximately 29 million Americans,(2)” said Pedro Jose Greer, Jr., M.D, F.A.C.P., F.A.C.G, gastroenterologist affiliated with Mercy and Baptist hospitals in Miami. “Acid reflux often requires chronic medical treatment to properly control acid levels or it may result in long-term consequences such as serious damage to the esophagus. Generally speaking, Hispanics suffering from acid reflux think the only cure is to drink homemade tea or stop eating some of their favorite dishes or condiments. This is simply not true.”

Survey Results:

— Seventy-eight percent (78%) of participants suffer from heartburn

— Sixty-six percent (66%) noticed acidic or sour taste in their mouth

— Fifty-seven percent (57%) suffered from belching

— Twenty-three percent (23%) of Hispanic women tend to suffer from the symptoms compared to sixteen (16%) of Hispanic men, few participants felt these symptoms warrant medical attention.

“In some people, their normal esophageal tissue may lose its healthy condition (and develop erosions),” said Dr. Greer. “Only a doctor can determine if someone has these erosions and treat them accordingly.”

Acid reflux is potentially serious and may be treated. For more information, please call (toll free) 1-866-271-7278. Select option 2.

1. Cheskin Research, August 2004
2. NHWS 2004, Consumer Health Sciences