Obesity in women linked to GERD

Rome -- An Italian research team says it has found a link between obesity and gastro-esophageal reflux disease in women.

The research, published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, found that being overweight increases the risk of hospitalization for GERD. Gastric distention after a large meal also increases the risk of GERD.

Dr. Enrico Corazziari of the University La Sapienza in Rome said the link between GERD and obesity was not as evident in men. He said increased estrogen may play a role in relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing gastric acid into the esophagus.

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Copyright 2007 by United Press International.