A population-based study identified several risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) among adults aged 35–65 years in western Iran and Kurdish populations. The study found that GERD prevalence was 10.99% (n=1,058). Older age and female gender were associated with higher GERD rates. Current smokers had a 23% higher risk of GERD compared to non-smokers. Alcohol consumption increased GERD risk (OR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.13, 1.99). Depressed individuals had a 46% higher risk of GERD. High intake of sweets and desserts was linked to increased GERD risk (OR: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.03), while high fiber and dairy intake reduced GERD risk. High waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and visceral fat area (VFA) were associated with increased GERD risk. Physical activity levels were inversely related to GERD risk. The study concluded that smoking, alcohol, inactivity, high intake of sweets and desserts, low fiber intake, depression, visceral fat, and obesity are significant risk factors for GERD. Modifying lifestyle and behavioral habits can help prevent and control GERD. The study highlights the importance of addressing these modifiable risk factors to reduce GERD incidence and its complications. The findings suggest that lifestyle changes, including regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and weight management, are essential in preventing GERD. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for further research to explore the causal relationship between alcohol consumption and GERD, as well as the bidirectional relationship between GERD and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.A population-based study identified several risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) among adults aged 35–65 years in western Iran and Kurdish populations. The study found that GERD prevalence was 10.99% (n=1,058). Older age and female gender were associated with higher GERD rates. Current smokers had a 23% higher risk of GERD compared to non-smokers. Alcohol consumption increased GERD risk (OR: 1.51; 95% CI: 1.13, 1.99). Depressed individuals had a 46% higher risk of GERD. High intake of sweets and desserts was linked to increased GERD risk (OR: 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.03), while high fiber and dairy intake reduced GERD risk. High waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and visceral fat area (VFA) were associated with increased GERD risk. Physical activity levels were inversely related to GERD risk. The study concluded that smoking, alcohol, inactivity, high intake of sweets and desserts, low fiber intake, depression, visceral fat, and obesity are significant risk factors for GERD. Modifying lifestyle and behavioral habits can help prevent and control GERD. The study highlights the importance of addressing these modifiable risk factors to reduce GERD incidence and its complications. The findings suggest that lifestyle changes, including regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and weight management, are essential in preventing GERD. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for further research to explore the causal relationship between alcohol consumption and GERD, as well as the bidirectional relationship between GERD and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.