May is Coeliac Awareness Month, led by Coeliac UK to raise awareness of coeliac disease, encourage earlier diagnosis, and support people living with the condition.
Coeliac disease is common but often underdiagnosed, and this campaign encourages people to recognise symptoms and seek testing.
Coeliac disease is a serious autoimmune condition where the body reacts to gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley and rye).
When someone with coeliac disease eats gluten, their immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine, causing damage and affecting nutrient absorption. It is not a food allergy or intolerance . It requires lifelong management. The only treatment is a strict gluten-free diet
Around 1 in 100 people in the UK have coeliac disease, only around 36% are diagnosed. An estimated 500,000 people may be undiagnosed. Many people live with symptoms for years before receiving a diagnosis.
Symptoms can vary widely and may be mild or severe. They can include:
- Ongoing diarrhoea, bloating, or stomach pain
- Fatigue and low energy
- Unexplained weight loss
- Anaemia
- Skin rashes (such as dermatitis herpetiformis)
- Neurological symptoms (e.g. headaches or numbness)
Coeliac disease is sometimes called a “multi-system” condition, meaning it can affect many parts of the body—not just the gut.
Risk may be higher if you:
- Have a family history of coeliac disease
- Have other autoimmune conditions (e.g. type 1 diabetes or thyroid disease)
- Have Down’s syndrome or Turner syndrome
If a close family member has coeliac disease, your risk may increase to around 1 in 10.
If untreated, coeliac disease can lead to complications such as:
- Osteoporosis (weak bones)
- Fertility problems or miscarriage
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Increased risk of certain cancers
Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve symptoms and long-term health.
Support is available from:
- Your GP and healthcare team
- Dietitians
- Support organisations such as Coeliac UK
Coeliac Awareness Month aims to:
- Improve recognition of symptoms
- Encourage earlier diagnosis
- Support people living with coeliac disease
- Reduce the number of people living undiagnosed