Sex Differences in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most commonly diagnosed digestive disorder in the United States. Higher rates of non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) are found in females while higher rates of erosive reflux disease (ERD) are found in males. Pre-menopausal females appear to be protected from esophageal mucosal damage, as they demonstrate lower rates of ERD, Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal adenocarcinoma. A protective effect of estrogen on the esophageal mucosa is thought to contribute to this decreased prevalence. A better understanding of sex-related differences in GERD may help alleviate the reported differences in outcomes between sexes regarding medical and surgical management.