New publications
The number of people who suffer from heartburn has increased dramatically
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
A long-term Norwegian study shows that the number of people experiencing heartburn at least once a week has increased by almost 50% over the past 10 years. The findings raise concerns among scientists that such trends could lead to an increase in oesophageal cancer in the future.
The scientists write about their findings in the journal Gut.
Heartburn, also known as gastroesophageal reflux, is when stomach contents, including food and acidic stomach juices, flow back up into the esophagus. This irritates the lining of the esophagus, causing heartburn and other uncomfortable symptoms.
In the study, lead author Eivind Naess-Jensen of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (Levanger) and colleagues analyzed the gastrointestinal health of nearly 30,000 people.
The data covers an 11-year period between 1995 and 2006. The scientists found that:
- Over the study period, the prevalence of any reflux symptom increased by 30% (from 31.4% to 40.9% of participants), while more severe symptoms increased by 24% (from 5.4% to 6.7%).
- The number of people who experienced heartburn symptoms at least once a week increased by 47% (from 11.6% to 17.1%). This increase was evident in both men and women, and of all ages.
- Nearly all (98%) of participants with severe heartburn symptoms used medications to relieve them at least once a week, compared with 31% of people with moderate symptoms.
- Women under 40 years of age were less likely to suffer from reflux esophagitis.
- Heartburn may resolve spontaneously without medication, but in this study this only happened in 2% of cases.
One explanation for the increased incidence of reflux esophagitis is the increasing number of overweight and obese people. In addition, reflux esophagitis in women may be associated with the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
The scientists warn that: "The increased prevalence of reflux oesophagitis is concerning as it is likely to contribute to the increased incidence of oesophageal adenocarcinoma in Western populations."