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Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), long considered a condition affecting only the digestive system, may play a significant role in cardiovascular health, according to a groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Translational Internal Medicine. Using advanced genetic analysis, researchers found that GERD is associated with key cardiovascular risk factors, including elevated blood pressure and adverse lipid profiles.
The study utilized a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) approach, an advanced technique that leverages genetic data to infer causality while minimizing confounding factors. By analyzing data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) involving over 600,000 participants, including 129,000 GERD cases, and cardiovascular data from more than 200,000 individuals in a European cohort, researchers uncovered compelling links.
The findings revealed that genetically predicted GERD is associated with elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP)—key contributors to hypertension, a major cardiovascular risk factor. Additionally, GERD was linked to unfavorable lipid profiles, including increased low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides, alongside reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. These markers are well-established contributors to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
The study also identified that GERD raises the odds of myocardial infarction (heart attack) by 27% and hypertension by 35%. However, no significant connection was found between GERD and heart failure.
For healthcare professionals, these results highlight the need to consider GERD as more than a gastrointestinal disorder. The observed associations between GERD and cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension and lipid abnormalities, suggest that untreated GERD could contribute to systemic health risks.
GERD affects millions worldwide, and its potential role in heart health warrants increased awareness and a more integrated approach to care. "These findings indicate that GERD may be a potential risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. By revealing these associations, our study underscores the importance of early diagnosis and prevention strategies for both GERD and cardiovascular conditions," said Qiang Su of Jiangbin Hospital, a contributing researcher.
By addressing GERD promptly, clinicians may have an opportunity to mitigate not only digestive symptoms but also long-term cardiovascular risks. Future research could further clarify the mechanisms behind these associations and explore how targeted interventions might reduce overall disease burden.