Celiac disease impacts an estimated 1 in 133 people in the United States and 1.4% of the population globally, and the number only continues to grow. The only way to treat or manage this increasingly common autoimmune disorder is by adopting a completely gluten-free diet. The prominence of gluten in American food can make that a challenge.
As medical research continues on the disease a new study involving The University of New Mexico College of Population Health reveals another path to helping patients: public policy.
Claudia B. Pratesi, PhD, contributed to the study that explores the link between public policies and the quality of life for individuals with celiac disease. As a tenure-track assistant professor in the UNM College of Population Health, Pratesi brings her interdisciplinary expertise to the forefront of this pressing health issue.
“Public policies are crucial for supporting individuals with dietary restrictions, as food is deeply woven into our social lives, religious practices, and cultural identities,” she said.
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is a complex autoimmune disorder that can profoundly impact an individual's quality of life, extending far beyond dietary restrictions. It is a condition where gluten consumption damages the small intestine, impairing nutrient absorption and causing symptoms like digestive issues and fatigue.
The necessity for a gluten-free diet often leads to increased food costs and limited dietary options, which can be especially burdensome for those with financial constraints. Additionally, people with celiac disease may feel isolated having a diet that's different from everyone else around them. This highlights the complex challenges faced by celiac disease in balancing their health needs with social and emotional well-being.
New Study Results
The new study involving Pratesi and others analyzed health-related quality of life surveys from 12 countries, including almost 4,000 individuals with celiac disease. The investigation examined how government policies and support systems for celiac disease correlated with patients' reported quality of life across different countries. The results found that more comprehensive public policies lead to improved quality of life outcomes for celiac patients.
The study also revealed the difference in regional approaches, showing that European and Oceanian countries generally had greater public policy support for celiac disease than African and Asian countries. This was reflected in the quality-of-life scores, with countries like Italy, the United Kingdom, and Australia consistently achieving some of the highest ratings in the study.
Financial support also emerged as an important factor in improving quality of life for celiac patients. Several countries, including Germany, the UK, and Portugal, have implemented or expanded policies providing financial assistance or tax deductions to offset the higher costs of gluten-free foods.
"These measures aim to alleviate the financial burden associated with maintaining a strict gluten-free diet," Pratesi said.
While researchers like Pratesi and her colleagues continue to study policy impacts, understanding and recognizing celiac disease symptoms remains a crucial first step toward improved quality of life for those affected by this autoimmune disorder.
For individuals concerned about celiac disease or seeking to learn more, the Celiac Disease Foundation offers comprehensive resources on symptoms, diagnosis, and management of the condition. The foundation provides detailed information about warning signs - which can include digestive issues, fatigue, and nutrient deficiencies - as well as guidance on genetic risk factors and testing procedures.