[Relationship of acid-related diseases with lifestyle habit changes and environmental factors].

In association with significant alterations in lifestyle habits, such as more Westernized dietary habits, and environmental factors including improved hygiene, changes in gastric acid secretion and upper gastrointestinal motility have recently been noted in Japanese individuals. Formerly, peptic ulcers, especially those caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, was the major acid-related disease encountered in Japan. However, more recently, cases of NSAID--and aspirin-induced ulcers are increasing. In addition, gastroesophageal reflux disease causing heartburn associated with reflux of stomach contents, mainly consisting of gastric acid, and functional dyspepsia with upper gastrointestinal symptoms, such as indigestion and gastric pain, are more often seen in patients.