Recent Australian research has led to a new test being developed to diagnose coeliac disease.
Researchers from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, WEHI, in partnership with Novoviah Pharmaceuticals are in the process of developing a simple blood test which mixes the patients blood with gluten cells in the hopes of identifying corresponding cells that indicate coeliac disease.
Previously, individuals needing diagnosis for coeliac disease would undergo weeks of eating large amounts of gluten so medical professionals could correctly identify symptoms. This system often proved ineffective for many patients already on a gluten free diet as the processed increased sickness and therefore deterred many from being diagnosed.
The new simple test hopes to reduce the number of those undiagnosed which currently sits at around 80% globally.
Coeliac disease, one of the most common autoimmune diseases in Australia, currently affects approximately 350,000 people in the country. The illness is caused by an immune reaction to the gluten protein found in common food groups such as bread.
Associate professor and leading researcher in the project Jason Tye-Din claimed in a statement from WEHI. “By eliminating the need for a gluten challenge, we’re addressing one of the biggest deterrents in current diagnostic practices.”
“About one in 70 Australians are affected, but four out of five people don’t know they have it,” Associate Professor Tye-Din stated to the ABC.
Easier paths to diagnosis will now reduce the impact of the disease for many affected who face potential health issues such as reduced gut health, osteoporosis and infertility if those impacted do not undergo the correct ‘treatment’ such as undertaking a gluten free diet.
For more information visit WEHI.edu.au
Sophie Janusko 