National Celiac Disease Awareness Day

National Celiac Disease Awareness Day is an important observance dedicated to raising awareness about celiac disease, a chronic autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten. This condition affects millions of individuals worldwide and can lead to serious health complications if left undiagnosed or untreated.

Quick Facts

When is it?: September 13
Tagged as: National Celiac Disease Awareness Day
What’s the hashtag?: #CeliacDiseaseAwarenessDay
When was it founded?: 2010
Who founded it?: The United States Senate, in honor of Dr. Samuel Gee.

History of National Celiac Disease Awareness Day

National Celiac Disease Awareness Day was established to honor Dr. Samuel Gee, who was a pioneer in understanding the connection between diet and celiac disease. His work laid the foundation for recognizing the importance of a gluten-free diet in managing this condition.

Timeline

1839: Birth of Dr. Samuel Gee, who published significant literature on celiac disease.
1940s: Dutch pediatrician Willem-Karel Dicke discovers the link between gluten and celiac disease.
2010: The U.S. Senate passes a resolution to establish National Celiac Disease Awareness Day.

Dates by Next Year

Year	Month	Date	Day
2024	September	13	Friday
2025	September	13	Saturday
2026	September	13	Sunday
2027	September	13	Monday
2028	September	13	Wednesday

Observed

National Celiac Disease Awareness Day is observed primarily in the United States, with various activities aimed at educating the public about celiac disease and promoting gluten-free living.

Fun Facts About Celiac Disease

Approximately 1% of Americans are affected by celiac disease.
Many people with celiac disease are asymptomatic, making diagnosis difficult.
A strict gluten-free diet is currently the only effective treatment for managing celiac disease.

Quiz

What triggers celiac disease?
Who was Dr. Samuel Gee?
When is National Celiac Disease Awareness Day observed?

Answers:

Gluten (found in wheat, barley, and rye).
A physician who identified the link between celiac disease and diet.
September 13.

FAQs

What are the symptoms of celiac disease?

Symptoms can include gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, weight loss, and skin problems.

How is celiac disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves blood tests and intestinal biopsies.

Can celiac disease develop at any age?

Yes, it can develop at any age, even in individuals who previously consumed gluten without issues.

Importance of National Celiac Disease Awareness Day

This observance plays a crucial role in educating the public about celiac disease, promoting early diagnosis, and encouraging individuals to seek help if they suspect they have the condition. It highlights the need for understanding and support for those affected by this autoimmune disorder.