Study of Symptomatic Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Children Aged 8-9 and 12-13 Years in the Czech Republic

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how common symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease GERD is among children aged 8-9 years and 12-13 years in the Czech Republic. The study aims to distinguish confirmed GERD from related conditions like reflux hypersensitivity and functional pyrosis using a stepwise diagnostic approach. It also explores the impact of symptoms on quality of life and examines potential risk factors linked to pediatric GERD. Participants are recruited through selected schools to reflect national demographics and complete an online questionnaire about reflux symptoms, prior medication use, and demographic information. Children reporting symptoms such as heartburn or regurgitation undergo a structured diagnostic process starting with a 14-day proton pump inhibitor PPI trial, followed by upper endoscopy if needed. When endoscopy results are inconclusive, 24-hour pH-impedance monitoring is performed to assess reflux severity and symptom association. Children who undergo diagnostic testing complete a validated quality-of-life questionnaire to assess symptom burden. Data collected include symptom presence, diagnostic outcomes, and epidemiologic factors stored securely for analysis. The study will provide population-based prevalence estimates and support future clinical guidance. Participation involves completing questionnaires and, if indicated, undergoing diagnostic tests at the investigators institution.

Prevalence of Symptomatic Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Czech Children (Czech GERDKids)