How many people get heartburn?

Heartburn affects a significant portion of the population, with studies suggesting that around 20% of adults in the United States experience it at least once a week. It can occur in people of all ages but is more common among older adults and those with certain lifestyle factors, such as obesity or smoking. Frequent heartburn may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which affects about 14-20% of adults. Overall, heartburn is a widespread condition that can impact daily life for many individuals.