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TÜRKÇE
Poster - 11
Prevalence and characteristics of gastroesophageal reflux-related symptoms among school-aged children in Yozgat, Türkiye
Sevgi Ulusoy Tangül 1, Rezzan Sayar 2, Yeşim Andıran Şenaylı 3, Kübra Taşdan 2, Merve Nur Kaynak 2, Meryem Gözde Bulat 2, Atilla Şenaylı 1
1 Bozok University, Faculty Of Medicine, Department Of Pediatric Surgery, Yozgat,Turkey
2 Yozgat Bozok University Research and Practice Hospital Nursing Unit
3 Yozgat Bozok University Anesthesiology and Reanimation Department
Purpose:
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is increasingly recognized as a significant health concern in pediatric populations, with potential consequences for growth and quality of life. This study investigates the prevalence of GERD-related symptoms among preschool, primary, and secondary school students in Yozgat, Türkiye, and examines associated demographic, clinical, and environmental factors.
Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted following ethical approvals from institutional and governmental authorities. Standardized questionnaires were administered to parents (for preschoolers) and directly to students (for older age groups) under teachers’ supervision. Variables included demographic data, family history of GERD, exposure to tobacco smoke, history of recurrent upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), and a spectrum of gastrointestinal symptoms suggestive of GERD.
Results:
A total of 2,593 students were enrolled (preschool: 241; primary school: 940; secondary school: 1,412). In preschoolers, frequent URTIs correlated significantly with lower body mass index and family history of GERD (p < 0.007), suggesting an interplay between recurrent infections, growth impairment, and possible reflux disease. Parental smoking was associated with a higher frequency of abdominal pain (p = 0.015).
Among primary school students, appetite loss, weight gain difficulties, and gastrointestinal complaints, including constipation and bloating, showed significant age- and gender-related variations (p < 0.034).
In secondary school students, typical GERD symptoms—such as regurgitation, chest pain, and nausea—were notably more frequent in girls (p < 0.001). The duration and severity of symptoms were positively associated with impacts on daily life activities.
Conclusion:
Our findings suggest that GERD-related symptoms emerge progressively with age, transitioning from nonspecific infection-related issues in younger children to classical GERD manifestations in adolescents. These results underscore the necessity for early screening and intervention strategies within school health programs to mitigate the long-term effects of pediatric GERD.