Celiac Disease Awareness Month in Maryland
Celiac Disease Awareness Month is in May and the goal is to increase the public’s knowledge of the autoimmune disorder celiac disease. According to the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center, “When a person who has celiac disease consumes gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, the individual’s immune system responds by attacking the small intestine and inhibiting the absorption of important nutrients into the body.”
Those with the disease must adhere to a strict, no-gluten diet, as there is no current cure. If an individual goes untested, complications such as osteoporosis and infertility can happen. Celiac disease affects 1% of Americans, which might not seem like a lot - until you realize that’s over 3 million people. This is why it is important to spread awareness of Celiac disease.
HOW TO OBSERVE CELIAC DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH
1.Donate to Celiac Disease Research
Every year, $ 1.45 billion is raised for celiac disease research, and you can contribute by donating to organizations like Beyond Celiac and the Celiac Disease Foundation.
2. Spread Awareness online
You can help spread awareness on any of your social media platforms during the month of May. Even something as simple as a fact about Celiac Disease can be monumental in helping spread knowledge to others.
3. Share your Celiac story
If you have experience with celiac disease, consider sharing your story this month. Unfortunately, many individuals who may have celiac disease go untest for it. Sharing your experience can be one of the biggest factors in whether or not your family and friends have the knowledge to get tested.
Five Facts About Celiac Disease Awareness Month
To honor Celiac Disease Awareness Month, here are a few facts to help spread some knowledge.
5-22% of those with celiac disease have an immediate family member who also has it.
It’s estimated that 83% of individuals with celiac disease are not diagnosed or misdiagnosed with a different disease.
In 2017, gluten-free food sales reached over $4.5 billion, and are only expected to increase with the awareness of celiac disease and screening.
On average, individuals with celiac disease must wait between 6-10 years to be properly diagnosed with the disease.
Though it is genetic, celiac disease can develop anytime in a person’s life after they ingest gluten-containing food or medicine.
Treating Celiac Disease in Maryland
Bowie Internal Medicine is committed to treating any conditions you may have, as well as preventing further health complications through preventative care. Please contact our office to schedule an appointment or ask any questions.