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Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Doc warns of new gastrointestinal ailment
A MEDICAL expert said Tuesday the number of Filipinos suffering from reflux or gastrointestinal illnesses is increasing.
Dr. Venancio Gloria, president of the Philippine College of Physician (PCP), said a new disease named Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (Gerd) is emerging among Filipinos.
Gloria said in his clinic alone, 25 cases a month have been diagnosed with Gerd. "We've noticed that reflux (diseases) seems to be on the rise," he said during the regular health forum sponsored by PCP and Mirror Magazine.
He said the too much drinking of beverages that causes acidity like colas and coffee is one major contributor and a source of the disease. He said although reflux may not lead to heart diseases, it goes up to the patient's throat if the stomach produces more acid and causes mucousa that may lead to esophageal cancer if left untreated.
He said a patient with a weak sphincter (a junction that separates the stomach and esophagus) is prone to reflux since they could no longer hold off the release of the acids to their throat.
Aside from patients with weak sphincter, Gloria said the disease is also common among the people aged 40 years old and above.
He said since the disease is new, there is no cure yet to it but doctors are giving their patient antacids for maintenance, particularly those found to have severe Gerd.
Gloria said the disease could be prevented by staying away from beverages like soft drinks and coffee that may stimulate acidity. (MSN/Sunnex)
(January 11, 2006 issue)
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