Celiac disease is a serious, genetic, autoimmune disease affecting people of all ages, races, ethnicities, and genders. It affects an estimated 1% of Americans, many of which are under-diagnosed.
Un- or misdiagnosed individuals with celiac disease are at risk of developing:
Anemia
Certain cancers
Infertility
Osteoporosis
And more…
Make a positive impact on those with celiac disease. Use simple testing protocols and be aware of unconscious biases when screening for it. Your actions can lead to early detection and better care, improving lives and fostering a compassionate community.
Currently, on average it takes a patient 6-10 years to be accurately diagnosed with celiac disease.
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease.
There is currently no cure and the only treatment is a lifelong gluten-free diet.
However, there are a number of potential treatments in clinical trials.
Patients with T1D or certain genetic conditions like Down syndrome should be screened.
First-degree family members should be tested for celiac disease.
People can have celiac disease without knowing it or showing “typical” symptoms.
Some with celiac disease have no symptoms.
Some patients are obese or overweight at diagnosis.
Patients can not outgrow celiac disease.
A negative test does not mean that a patient can’t develop celiac disease in the future.
Dentists should screen patients who have enamel defects and recurrent canker sores for celiac disease.
Race, age, gender, or weight should not determine whether or not someone is screened.
The following resources are provided by Beyond Celiac as part of our mission to increase diagnosis rates and accelerate a cure for this serious disease.
There are more than 250 known symptoms of celiac disease (many of which are not GI-related). Due to the wide variety of symptoms that may present themselves, it can sometimes be difficult to diagnose celiac disease.
Symptoms of Celiac DiseaseScreening starts with antibody serology tests. If positive, they are followed up with an endoscopy to confirm diagnosis. Genetic testing can also help rule out celiac disease. It is important that patients not start a gluten-free diet prior to testing.
Testing for Celiac DiseaseRecommended regular healthcare follow-up information for patients.
Monitoring and Follow-UpBeyond Celiac shares the latest in research on celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.
Latest ResearchBeyond Celiac is dedicated to finding treatments and a cure for celiac disease, and part of that effort is focused on reducing disparities, both in diagnosis and access to resources.
Health EquityHave patients interested in being a part of finding treatments and a cure for celiac disease? Direct them to our clinical trials page which has the latest info, a trial matching tool, and more.
Celiac Clinical TrialsHelp spread awareness and educate fellow healthcare providers by downloading Beyond Celiac shareable materials and sharing them through your networks. If you have questions or would like to get involved, contact us at [email protected].
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