CLINICAL PROFILE AND PATIENTS' PERCEPTION OF GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE IN AN EDUCATIONAL INTERVENTION

Abstract

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a highly prevalent chronic condition in the Brazilian urban population, generating a significant negative impact on individuals' quality of life, sleep, and eating habits. Although pharmacological treatment is the traditional management approach, behavioral and lifestyle modifications are indispensable and often neglected pillars, resulting in poor therapeutic adherence. To analyze the clinical profile and lifestyle habits of patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) treated at an outpatient service, investigating their main daily difficulties and challenges to support targeted educational interventions. This is an observational, cross-sectional, descriptive study with a qualitative-quantitative approach, conducted with 10 adult patients treated at a Regional Specialty Center (CRE) in Cachoeiro de Itapemirim, Espírito Santo, Brazil. The sample was predominantly female (70%), with a mean age of 62.8 years and overweight (mean BMI 26.0 kg/m²); 60% had previous endoscopic findings of reflux or esophagitis. Caffeine consumption was universal (100%), physical inactivity was present in 60%, and 80% regularly used medication. The mean GerdQ score was 11.5 (±2.1), above the diagnostic cutoff. Qualitative analysis yielded three thematic categories: the physical and emotional impact of heartburn, the interference of reflux with sleep and routine, and cultural, social, and behavioral barriers to adhering to non-pharmacological recommendations. The qualitative-quantitative approach integrated symptom assessment with patients' perceived experiences, highlighting cultural, social, and routine-related barriers that may hinder the adoption of non-pharmacological measures. The findings reinforce the importance of individualized educational strategies in outpatient follow-up, although the study design does not allow for evaluating behavioral changes or therapeutic adherence after the intervention.