[Gastroesophageal reflux in the French general population: national survey of 8000 adults].

Objectives: To assess the population-based prevalence in France of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and to report its characteristics, consultation rate, modes of management, as well as patients' satisfaction.

Methods: This epidemiological quantitative mail survey sent to a sample of 8000 persons representative of the French adult population comprised 46 questions about GERD, its risk factors, management, last episode, and satisfaction with treatment. GERD was defined in accordance with the guidelines of the 1999 consensus conference as the existence of typical symptoms (heartburn, acid regurgitation) and frequent GERD as occurring at a frequency of at least once a week.