Introduction: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive disorder worldwide, with an increasing prevalence among young adults. It can significantly impair quality of life and promote certain digestive complications. In West Africa, few studies have investigated this condition in university settings, particularly in Burkina Faso.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of GERD among students at Lédéa Bernard Ouédraogo University (ULBO), to assess its impact on quality of life, and to compare these aspects across different academic units.

Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study was conducted from April 1 to June 30, 2025, involving 432 students at ULBO. Data were collected using an online self- administered questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS version 26, using the Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, and logistic regression models.

Results: The prevalence of GERD was 25.5%. Students from the UFR/SS showed a prevalence of 11.1%, those from IFPM 8.6%, and those from UFR/ST 5.8%. The Simplified Reflux-Qual Score revealed moderate to severe impairment of quality of life in 25.5% of affected students. Students from IFPM experienced greater quality-of-life impairment, whereas medical students reported better quality of life compared to others.

Conclusion: GERD is a frequent condition among ULBO students, leading to moderate to severe quality-of-life impairment in one out of four cases. Future studies assessing the impact of this impairment on academic performance would be of great interest in university settings.