Celiac Disease

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April 11, 2003

NUTRITION NEWS FOCUS

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Today's Topic: Celiac Disease

 

Celiac disease is an intestinal condition triggered by consumption of

gluten, the protein from grains like wheat, barley and rye. Although

relatively rare, a new study suggests it is much more common than

previously believed.

 

Over 13,000 Americans of all ages were studied including 3,200

patients with intestinal symptoms, 4,500 first-degree relatives,

1,200 second-degree relatives, and 4,100 people with no known risk.

A blood test was done to show reactivity to the intestine and an

intestinal biopsy confirmed this in over 200. The prevalence in

patients and their relatives ranged from 1 in 22 to 1 in 68. In those

with no identifiable risk, the rate was almost 1 in 100. The study

was published in the February 10, 2003 Archives of Internal Medicine.

< http://archinte.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/163/3/286 >

 

HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: There has been a

long-standing controversy about the prevalence of celiac disease in

various countries. This rate appears similar to that in Europe and

suggests that the condition is more common than previously thought.

This means physicians often do not consider celiac in their diagnosis

of intestinal problems.

 

 

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