A new study reveals that frequent heartburn may indicate a higher risk of alcoholism, highlighting the connection between Gastroesophageal reflux disease and alcohol use disorder.
- The study found that patients with Gastroesophageal reflux disease face an 18% increased risk of diagnosis with alcohol use disorder, emphasizing a critical health connection.
- Published in the Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, the research underscores the importance of screening for alcoholism in patients suffering from heartburn.
- Conducted by researchers from Saint Louis University, the findings suggest a public health implication as heartburn could serve as an early indicator of problematic drinking behaviors in the United States.
Why It Matters
Understanding the link between Gastroesophageal reflux disease and alcoholism could lead to earlier interventions for individuals at risk, ultimately improving treatment outcomes and reducing health burdens associated with alcohol abuse.