Over 78,000 people in Ireland are living with undiagnosed coeliac disease

It is estimated that more than 78,000 children and adults in Ireland are living with undiagnosed coeliac disease – a lifelong autoimmune disease affecting approximately 1.7% of the nation’s population. Despite its prevalence in Ireland, coeliac disease is often overlooked and misunderstood with a quarter of those living with the disease previously misdiagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).   

Coeliac disease is a condition in which the body’s immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye causing damage to the lining of the intestine, preventing the body from absorbing important nutrients. As a result, people with coeliac disease have to avoid foods with gluten. 

Symptoms of coeliac disease include constant mouth ulcers, crippling fatigue, stomach pain, regular bouts of diarrhoea, anaemia and weight loss. While there is a no cure, coeliac disease can be treated by following a strict gluten-free diet. Left untreated, the disease can lead to severe complications such as malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. 

To mark Coeliac Awareness Month which takes place throughout the month of May, the Coeliac Society of Ireland aims to shine a light on the disease by educating the public on the symptoms and asking people to ‘Think, Test, Treat’ – urging those who suspect they may have coeliac disease to take the first step to receiving a diagnosis by visiting a GP to arrange a blood-based genetic test.  

This May, the Coeliac Society of Ireland will be amplifying the conversation on coeliac disease to advance early diagnosis by inviting the nation to learn more about the various aspects of the autoimmune disease through weekly events and webinars – with more details and registration available here.  

• Week 1: What is Coeliac Disease? 

• Week 2: Think, Test Treat – How to Spot Coeliac Disease  

• Week 3: Cooking for Coeliacs 

• Week 4: Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Coeliac Disease 

 Speaking about the awareness drive for Coeliac Awareness Month, Sarah Keogh, Nutritionist, and Dietitian says: 

 “With so many people across Ireland living with undiagnosed coeliac disease, it’s important that we amplify the conversation and help the public understand the symptoms and raise awareness that this is a serious autoimmune disease. Coeliac disease has a wide range of symptoms that affects different people in different ways which can lead to misdiagnosis and many people living with coeliac disease without realising. For example, studies show that 24% of individuals with lactose intolerance may also have coeliac disease. Additionally, up to 40% of those with repeated low iron levels may need to be tested for coeliac disease. We urge those who suspect they may have coeliac disease to ‘Think, Test, Treat’ and a simple blood test from your doctor might provide the answer.”  

 The Coeliac Society of Ireland’ Coeliac Awareness Month is proudly sponsored by Promise Gluten Free. Expressing their dedication to the cause, Theo Gibbons, Marketing Lead at Promise Gluten Free says: 

 “We’re once again delighted to join forces with the Coeliac Society of Ireland and sponsor Coeliac Awareness Month. As the leading provider of gluten-free baked goods in Ireland, Promise Gluten Free is honoured to work with the Coeliac Society of Ireland to raise awareness of coeliac disease and work towards a shared goal of empowering those living with the disease. Our extension range of high-quality gluten-free products reflects our commitment to offering individuals more choices, better accessibility and ultimately making gluten-free living not only manageable but also enjoyable for all.”  

The Coeliac Society of Ireland was established in 1970 as the national charity supporting people diagnosed with coeliac disease. The Society is determined to make sure that every person diagnosed has the support and help they need to make living with their condition as easy and as normal as is possible by providing them with information, advice and practical solutions as they navigate a gluten-free lifestyle.