Epidemiology

EoE incidence and prevalence are increasing at a rate that is outpacing increased recognition or detection.[11][12]​​ EoE is the most common cause of food impactions in patients presenting to the emergency department, and is present in more than half of these cases.[13]​​[14][15]​ The mean estimate of prevalence throughout Europe and North America since 2017 is 63 per 100,000 people (rising from 15 per 100,000 people pre 2007), with a pooled incidence rate of 6.2 per 100,000 people per year (rising from 2.6 per 100,000 before 2007).[16] The condition has been reported throughout the world, and the prevalence in South America, and Australia is similar to that in the US.[11][17][18][19][20]​​ The prevalence is far lower in Asian countries, where the condition remains rare, but the reason for this difference is unknown.[21][22]

EoE will be seen in 6% to 7% of patients undergoing upper endoscopy for any indication.[23] In patients undergoing upper endoscopy for symptoms of dysphagia, EoE will be seen in 15% to 23% of patients.[24][25]

EoE has been reported in patients of all ages, but is more commonly seen in children and young adults, with the peak prevalence occurring between ages 30 years and 40 years.[26]​ However, because it is chronic and not fatal, the frequency of the disease will increase in adults. Approximately two-thirds of patients are male, although the reasons for this are unknown.[27][28]​​​ It is more common in white people compared with nonwhite people, although it has been reported in multiple ethnic and racial populations.[29][30]

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