Coeliac
Survey
Results of a survey of the nutritional knowledge, eating habits, and quality of life, of people with Coeliac Disease
Coeliac Disease (CD) is a lifelong auto-immune disorder which can develop at any age amongst genetically susceptible individuals and affects around 1 in 100 of the UK population. CD damages the small intestine of genetically susceptible individuals when exposed to gluten. CD is being diagnosed more frequently, though an estimated 500,000 people in the UK remain undiagnosed (Coeliac UK, 2021).
This survey in 2019 explored four aspects of everyday life for people with Coeliac Disease (CD):
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Demographics (eg. age at diagnosis, gender)
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Eating habits
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Nutritional knowledge
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Quality of life
The survey recorded everyday experiences of living with CD, and whether or not these issues vary by current age and age at diagnosis.
The survey asked questions about food and nutrition knowledge prior to diagnosis, and how much had to be learned after diagnosis.
There were questions about the level of understanding and support from family and friends. Did they understand CD and what you can and can’t eat?
Experiences of eating out were explored, including social occasions, and the additional cost.
Other more emotional issues were asked and whether living with CD has become any easier or more difficult over time.
Links to Survey Result Summaries:
It is hoped that with a greater understanding of the impact of CD on physical health and social wellbeing, then family, friends, and the wider community may become more sensitive to the needs of people with CD.
My grateful thanks go to the 185 people who completed the survey anonymously, and who shared their experiences. Hopefully these results will contribute to the development of initiatives to raise awareness amongst not only family and friends, but also commercial interests and educators.