[Celiac disease in Emilia Romagna]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Celiac disease prevalence is often underestimated globally.
• Regional variations in diagnosis and reporting contribute to underestimation.
• Understanding local prevalence is crucial for public health initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the prevalence of celiac disease in the Emilia Romagna region.
• To compare regional data with international celiac disease prevalence rates.
• To highlight the ongoing underestimation of celiac disease.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of symptomatic patients within the regional health service reimbursement program in 2008.
• Inclusion of 7811 patients in the study cohort.
• Examination of age-specific prevalence and district-level variations.

Main Results:

• Overall celiac disease prevalence in Emilia Romagna was 1.8 patients per 1000 citizens.
• Prevalence showed significant variability across districts, ranging from 1:384 in Parma to 1:909 in Piacenza.
• No significant age-related prevalence was observed, except possibly in infants aged 0-1, potentially linked to breastfeeding.

Conclusions:

• The study confirms the underestimation of celiac disease prevalence, consistent with findings in other countries.
• Despite diagnostic tools like serological tests and small bowel histology, underdiagnosis persists.
• A multidisciplinary approach is recommended to enhance celiac disease awareness and investigate its pathogenesis.