How do people with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease perceive their disease≟ Results of a multinational survey

ABSTRACT

Objective: To determine how patients with gastro-oesoph­ageal reflux disease (GERD) perceive their condition.

Methods: Subjects with a formal diagnosis of GERD (n = 929) and those who did not have a formal diagnosis but regularly suffered from symptoms suggestive of GERD (heartburn or acid regurgitation, n = 924) were identified as part of a multinational survey.

Results: Symptoms had been present for a mean of 11 years in diagnosed individuals and 8 years in undiagnosed individuals. Over-the-counter (OTC) antacids were used by 78% of undiagnosed individuals. Most patients (68% of undiagnosed and 46% of diagnosed subjects) did not consider themselves to have a serious condition, while 70% of undiagnosed and 58% of diagnosed respondents believed that their condition would not have any long-term health consequences. A key perception driving the decision to seek medical care was the belief that a physician, and prescribed medication, could help. Conversely, the perception that OTC medications work effectively was the greatest barrier to visiting a physician. Diagnosed patients, who, on average, waited 2 years before seeking medical advice, indicated that prescription medication reduced the severity and frequency of their symptoms.

Conclusions: There is widespread perception that GERD is a non-serious disease without long-term health con­sequences, and some patients find that OTC medications are a sufficiently effective treatment option. Educational initiatives should perhaps be targeted at those in greatest medical need, overcoming the barriers that dissuade many of these patients from seeking appropriate medical care.

Key words: :

• Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
• Patient perceptions
• Treatment satisfaction