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Which portion of the stomach surrounds the lower esophageal sphincter?

  1. Fundus

  2. Cardia

  3. Pylorus

  4. Body

The correct answer is: Cardia

The cardia is the portion of the stomach that directly surrounds and connects to the lower esophageal sphincter. This area plays a crucial role in the digestive process, as it allows the entry of food from the esophagus into the stomach while preventing the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. The proximity of the cardia to the lower esophageal sphincter makes it integral in maintaining proper digestive function and protecting the esophagus from acid reflux. The other parts of the stomach, such as the fundus, pylorus, and body, are located further away and do not have the same direct influence on the lower esophageal sphincter.