Gastroesophageal reflux disease （GERD）, a common disorder in the West, is less seen in Asian countries. No nationwide epidemiological study of GERD has been conducted in China up to now and the population distribution of GERD remains unknown. Many factors are believed to be responsible for GERD. In addition to some recognized factors, the influences of factors like obesity, smoking and so on are till unclear. Furthermore, GERD is believed to be associated with many diseases. This article reviews the disease distribution, risk factors and associated diseases of GERD.