Coeliac screening: patients' views on diagnosis

In response to calls for the introduction of population screening for coeliac disease, researchers at the University of Nottingham, UK, have conducted a study to assess how acceptable early diagnoses and treatment would be to those diagnosed.

Coeliac disease patients who had taken a gluten-free diet for at least 12 months were surveyed to obtain their views as to the diagnosis and treatment of their disease. Those presenting with typical classical symptoms were compared with those diagnosed without such symptoms, with close to 150 patients responding to the survey.

Two-thirds reported that their dietary restrictions reduced their enjoyment of food and nearly half said their food cost them an estimated 10 pounds sterling more per week. More than 80% reported being pleased that they were diagnosed, with 66% of those with classical symptoms wishing they had been diagnosed earlier. In contrast, more than a quarter of coeliacs diagnosed without classical symptoms regretted being diagnosed with their condition. In comparison, 10% of those with classical symptoms regretted being diagnosed.

In the light of these findings, the researchers question how acceptable screening for coeliac disease would be in people with minimal or no symptoms.

Reference: Whitaker et al. 2009. Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Vol 29(10) pp. 1131-6