Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder characterized by the inability of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax properly, leading to difficulty in swallowing and the sensation of food getting stuck in the chest. It affects both males and females equally and can occur at any age, although it is most commonly diagnosed between the ages of 25 and 60.
The prevalence of achalasia varies across different populations and geographical regions. Studies have estimated that the overall prevalence ranges from 1 to 10 cases per 100,000 individuals. However, it is important to note that these figures may not accurately represent the true prevalence due to underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis.
Achalasia is considered a rare condition, and its exact prevalence is challenging to determine. Nevertheless, it is generally agreed upon that achalasia is a relatively uncommon disorder.