World Trade Center Health Program best practices for the diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common health conditions reported among persons exposed to the dust, debris and chemicals after the September 11, 2001 attacks in the United States. In the 9/11-exposed population, GERD is often found to be co-morbid with other conditions, such as asthma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obesity. High-quality clinical practice guidelines for GERD are available from the American College of Gastroenterology. GERD diagnostic services and medically necessary treatment are covered by the WTC Health Program for persons who meet eligibility criteria.

Keywords:

• 9/11
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
• PPI
• proton pump inhibitor
• September 11
• World Trade Center
• WTC

Acknowledgments

The authors thank the WTC rescue, response, recovery and cleanup workers and survivors who participate in the WTC Health Program, and the healthcare professionals dedicated to their care. The authors also thank Kathy Black, PhD, MPH for her kind assistance with the paper.

Disclosure statement

The authors report there are no competing interests to declare.

Institutional Review Board Review

This activity did not involve human subjects and therefore did not require IRB review.