Celiac disease is a hereditary autoimmune disease. Because it’s in our genetics it is suggested to test throughout our extended family. Remember, celiac can be a symptomless disease.

Most family members may balk at this information if they feel well, intimidated by knowing the truth and the diet changes that will ensue if diagnosed themselves.

According to the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University

“Recent studies have revealed an estimated average worldwide prevalence of 1 in 266 and a prevalence of 1 in 133 in the United States. This establishes celiac disease as one of the most common genetically based diseases that physicians will encounter. Because of lack of awareness, celiac disease is still vastly under diagnosed in the U.S.”

Diagnosing celiac disease is akin to finding a mouse in your kitchen- there’s never just one. This is why it is highly suggested to test your relatives to determine a celiac disease diagnosis.

“When the diagnosis is established in one family member, their first- degree relatives (parents, siblings and children) should have blood tests for celiac disease. This is because at least 10% of family members will have the disease, even if they are asymptomatic. Screening is also recommended for second-degree relatives (grandparents, grandchildren, aunts, uncles and cousins) as they are also at an increased risk for celiac disease. Family members who already have an autoimmune disease are at a greatly increased risk to have celiac disease (25%). ”

Are you at greater risk?

“Among ethnic groups the highest prevalence is in a North African refugee population, followed by Ireland. Within populations of European origins the groups with increased risk include family members of patients with celiac disease, patients with autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 diabetes, autoimmune thyroid disease and Sjögren syndrome, children with Down syndrome as well as patients with Turner syndrome, Williams syndrome, and patients with chronic liver disease (most notably primary biliary cirrhosis).”