Childhood Obesity Increases Risk of Acid Reflux Disease GERD

Obesity has been linked to acid reflux disease in adults, but a new study suggests that obese children may be at high risk as well.

Children who are obese have a 30%-40% higher risk of developing acid reflux disease than children who are at a normal weight range.

The study, conducted by Kaiser Permanente, is the largest study in history to discover the connection between obese children and acid reflux disease.

“Our study adds yet another risk to the already extensive list of risks associated with extreme obesity in childhood,” Corinna Koebnick, PhD, tells WedMD. “Childhood obesity is an extremely serious issue.”

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, occurs when the esophagus is overloaded with stomach contents. GERD can lead to esophageal cancer in adults.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, obesity has tripled over the last thirty years, and about one in five children and teens are obese.

The study found that children aged 6 and older with signs of obesity were associated an increase in acid reflux disease, more so than compared with adults.