Coeliac Society of Ireland urges families to get tested

The Coeliac Society of Ireland has launched Awareness Week 2023 and is encouraging families to take a proactive approach to their health by getting tested for coeliac disease and gluten intolerance. Awareness Week will run from May 15 to May 20 with a mix of online and in person gatherings throughout the country.

This year’s awareness theme is all about Family & Diagnosis and the society is asking all households to ‘Make a Promise this Awareness Week – Get Tested!’.

This in not just a catch phrase but is a critically important question that need to be answered and is based on the findings of a study on ‘Family Prevalence’ of the incurable autoimmune coeliac disease.

According to the research, only 28.8% of first-degree relatives of sufferers have been tested for coeliac disease, and 9.3% of those tested were diagnosed with the condition. Children were the most likely group of first-degree relatives to be tested and/or diagnosed compared to other relatives, such as siblings and parents.

Coeliac disease is a genetic autoimmune disorder that affects approximately 1.5% of the population (76,500). Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include abdominal pain, bloating, and fatigue.

If left untreated, coeliac disease can lead to serious complications such as malnutrition, osteoporosis, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

The Coeliac Society of Ireland is urging all first-degree family members to get tested for coeliac disease.

Currently it is estimated by the society that 62,250 children and adults are undiagnosed coeliacs.

Sarah Keogh, Head Dietician, Coeliac Society of Ireland said.

"Getting tested for coeliac disease is an important step in taking charge of your health.

“It's a simple blood test that can be done by your local GP,” she suggested

“If you have a family member with coeliac disease, it's important to get tested, as you may have a higher risk of developing the condition," Ms Keogh explained ahead of Awareness Week 2023, taking place from May 15 to 20.

People can register free of charge on the www.coeliac.ie website to attend advice talks, information meetings, dietetic clinics, cooking and catering demonstrations, and to find out more about coeliac disease and gluten intolerance.

Kindly supported by by Promise Gluten Free brand, Coeliac Awareness Week from May 15 to 20 next is a must attend event for all people concerned about their gut health in the future and living gluten free.