Celiac Disease is ‘In’

What’s In for 2010, according to the Washington Post, Celiac Disease.  Being featured on the newsaper’s list of ‘In’s and Out’s’ will no doubt boost efforts to raise awareness about the world’s most common genetic disorder.

A decade ago such a pronouncement was unthinkable.  Then, the condition was considered to be relatively rare and predominantly affecting children.  Today, we know that roughly 1% of the world’s population has celiac disease.  In the United States it affects 1 in 133 Americans or roughly 3 million people.  Over the same time period dedicated researchers have been able to identify the genes and abnormalities in the structure of the small intestine that cause the disease.

Awareness of celiac disease within the medical community has resulted in improved screening and has significantly increased the number of patients being properly diagnosed. This in turn has improved demand and availability for gluten-free foods. It is now common to see questions about celiac disease appear in newspaper medical advice columns or to hear about it on television.

We still have a long way to go in:

• learning about the scientific underpinnings of this genetic disease;
• educating practicing physicians and other health professionals;
• helping patients get diagnosed;
• ensuring that safe gluten-free food products are readily available for those who need them; and
• raising awareness.

The ACDA and its members are at the forefront in each of these areas working with individuals, the community, and other allied partners, to improve the lives of those with celiac disease.