Physicians Caring for Celiac Patients do not Routinely Recommend Screening of First-Degree Family Members

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Genetics
• Public Health

Background:

• Screening first-degree relatives of celiac disease (CD) patients is crucial for early diagnosis in a high-risk population.
• Physician recommendations play a key role in initiating family screening for CD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the frequency of physician-issued recommendations for first-degree relative screening among CD patients.
• To assess the impact of such recommendations on subsequent CD diagnosis in relatives.

Main Methods:

• A validated 12-question survey was administered to CD patients at a university gastroenterology practice and online to members of a celiac organization.
• Data from 677 NFCA and 82 University respondents were analyzed using univariate analysis.

Main Results:

• Only 44% of NFCA members and 78% of University patients received a physician recommendation for family screening.
• Recommendations led to family discussion, screening, and diagnosis in a significant proportion of cases (18-27% diagnosis rate).

Conclusions:

• Physician compliance with recommending first-degree relative screening for CD is often inadequate.
• Enhancing physician recommendations for screening can significantly increase CD diagnoses in at-risk family members.