How common is celiac disease?
Originally considered a rare disease of childhood, celiac disease is now recognized as a common condition that may be diagnosed at any age. Recent studies have revealed an estimated average worldwide prevalence of 1 in 266 and a prevalence of 1 in 133 in the United States. This establishes celiac disease as one of the most common genetically based diseases that physicians will encounter. Because of lack of awareness, celiac disease is still vastly under diagnosed in the U.S. The disease has been reported in many countries from around the world including the Middle East with reports from Iran, from North Africa (Libya), from most countries in South America, from Australia and south Asia.
Data on the prevalence of celiac disease is spotty. In Italy about 1 in 250 people, and in Ireland about 1 in 300 people, have celiac disease. Recent studies have shown that it may be more common in Africa, South America, and Asia than previously believed. Until recently, celiac disease was thought to be uncommon in the United States. However, studies have shown that celiac disease is very common. Recent findings estimate about 2 million people in the United States have celiac disease, or about 1 in 133 people. Among people who have a first-degree relative diagnosed with celiac disease, as many as 1 in 22 people may have the disease. Celiac disease could be underdiagnosed in the United States for a number of reasons including: • Celiac symptoms can be attributed to other problems. • Many doctors and health care providers are not knowledgeable about the disease. • Only a small number of U.S. laboratories are experienced and skilled in testing for celiac disease. More research is needed
