PGIMER Marks Celiac Disease Awareness Day, Stresses Early Detection and Lifelong Dietary Discipline

Chandigarh:

Marking Celiac Disease Awareness Day, the Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, PGIMER, Chandigarh organised a special patient education and awareness programme to sensitise children, parents, and caregivers about the early diagnosis, long-term management, and prevention of complications associated with Celiac Disease.

The programme, held as part of PGIMER’s ongoing patient education initiatives, focused on equipping families with practical knowledge about this chronic autoimmune condition triggered by gluten consumption, primarily found in wheat and related grains.

Addressing the gathering, Prof.SadhnaLal, Head, Division of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, PGIMER, said, “Celiac Disease is not just a disease but a lifelong change in lifestyle. Effective management requires not only medical diagnosis but also strict dietary discipline, awareness, and active family participation.”

Highlighting the growing burden of the disease in North India, Prof.Lal explained that Celiac Disease is significantly more prevalent in regions such as Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and adjoining areas due to genetic susceptibility and wheat-dominant food habits.

“Research conducted by PGIMER through school-based screening in Chandigarh found that nearly 1 in every 120 children may have Celiac Disease, making it an important public health concern,” she informed.

Prof.Lal noted that despite its prevalence, the disease often remains underdiagnosed because symptoms are frequently subtle or atypical. “Celiac Disease is like an iceberg—the visible symptoms are only a small portion of the underlying burden. Many patients remain undetected for years while silent internal damage continues,” Prof.Lal remarked.

Explaining disease presentation, she said that while loose motions and growth failure were once considered classical symptoms, current disease patterns have evolved considerably. “Today, many children present with normal growth but may have unexplained anaemia, mild abdominal discomfort, or subtle symptoms. Therefore, clinicians and parents must maintain a high index of suspicion,” she added.

Prof.Lal stressed that diagnosis should never rely on symptoms alone and requires scientific confirmation. “A blood test for anti-TTG antibodies, followed by endoscopy and intestinal biopsy where indicated, remains essential for confirming diagnosis, especially since treatment requires lifelong dietary restriction,” she said.

Emphasising treatment, Prof.Lal reiterated that the only effective therapy is a strict lifelong gluten-free diet. “Once diagnosed, wheat and wheat-based products must be eliminated completely. Even small dietary lapses can trigger intestinal damage and long-term complications,” she cautioned.

Parents were advised to prioritise safe, home-prepared gluten-free foods using naturally safe grains such as jowar, bajra, ragi, maize, and pulses, while avoiding processed and packaged foods that may carry contamination risks.

Highlighting preventive health practices, Prof.Lal also underscored the role of breastfeeding. “Our research suggests that children who receive exclusive breastfeeding for at least six months tend to have less severe disease manifestations compared to those who do not,” she shared.

Addressing behavioural aspects, she urged parents not to make food the centre of a child’s life. “Children with Celiac Disease can lead completely normal, active, and fulfilling lives. Focus should remain on education, sports, hobbies, and overall personality development rather than food-related anxieties,” she advised.

The programme included interactive sessions on disease understanding, dietary counselling, safe food practices, home flour preparation methods to avoid cross-contamination, and practical strategies for maintaining dietary compliance at school and social settings.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from children, parents, care givers, and healthcare professionals, reflecting growing awareness about Celiac Disease and the need for collaborative care.

Reaffirming PGIMER’s commitment to advancing paediatric digestive healthcare, Prof.Lal concluded, “Awareness, early diagnosis, and disciplined management remain the pillars of preventing complications and ensuring a healthy future for children living with Celiac Disease.”