Celiac Awareness Month - May 2013

As Minister of Health, I am pleased to recognize Celiac Awareness Month and I encourage all Canadians to learn more about celiac disease.

Celiac disease is now recognized as one of the most common chronic diseases in the world. It is estimated that it affects as many as 1 in every 100 - 200 people in North America. As many as 300,000 Canadians could have this disease; however, many remain undiagnosed. The symptoms of celiac disease can develop at any age, once gluten-containing foods are added to the diet. In the past, celiac disease was thought to be a childhood disease, but it is now recognized that it occurs more frequently in adults, especially in individuals between 30 and 60 years of age.

If you are related to someone with this disease, you have about a 10% chance of having this condition. So, family members, especially if they have symptoms, should be tested for celiac disease.  Not everyone who inherits the genes associated with celiac disease will develop the disease; there are also other factors involved. In adults who are susceptible, many symptoms may develop when triggered by stress, infections, surgery or pregnancy.

I am pleased that the requirements for "gluten-free" claims on foods were updated in August 2012, as part of amendments to the Food and Drug Regulations.  This change will allow food manufacturers to label and market foods that are "gluten free" more clearly, and ensure that sources of gluten are always identified on food labels.  For consumers with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, it means they have choices of foods they can safely eat.  Also, the good news is that a broader variety of gluten-free foods or food products is becoming available across the country, making food choices and food preparation easier for people with celiac disease.  Information about celiac disease is available on the Health Canada website.

I would also like to acknowledge the  Canadian Celiac Association and the  Fondation québécoise de la maladie coeliaque for their ongoing dedication to raising awareness, understanding and acceptance around this condition, while supporting research in this area.

Sincerely,
The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health