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Celiac disease in African-Americans

Pardeep Brar1, Ann R Lee, Suzanne K Lewis

  • 1Department of Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York, USA.

Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|April 28, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Celiac disease affects African-Americans, though it is often underdiagnosed. This study highlights the need for better diagnostic methods and improved gluten-free diet adherence in minority populations.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Immunology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Celiac disease diagnosis rates are low in the US.
  • Its prevalence in ethnic minorities remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report a case series of African-American patients diagnosed with celiac disease.
  • To investigate the clinical presentation and management challenges in this demographic.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of a prospectively generated database.
  • Identification of African-American patients with biopsy-proven celiac disease.
  • Review of clinical data, including presentation, comorbidities, and dietary adherence.

Main Results:

  • Nine African-American patients (1.3% of 700) with celiac disease were identified between 1981 and 2004.
  • Females predominated (7:2 ratio).
  • Presentations varied, including diarrhea and iron deficiency anemia; one-third had autoimmune diseases. Dietary adherence was poor in most patients.

Conclusions:

  • Celiac disease occurs in African-Americans and is likely underdiagnosed.
  • Strategies to improve gluten-free diet adherence in minority groups are essential.

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