78,000 in Ireland Living with Undiagnosed Coeliac Disease as New Campaign Urges Testing

This May, Coeliac Awareness Month sees the Coeliac Society of Ireland urging people across the country not to ignore persistent, unexplained symptoms. With the message “Don’t Live with Uncertainty – Rule Out Coeliac Disease” the society is encouraging greater awareness of coeliac disease and prompting those who may be affected to consider testing for a condition that often goes undiagnosed. 

Coeliac Disease is a lifelong autoimmune condition affecting approximately 1.7% of the Irish population, it remains significantly underdiagnosed. An estimated 78,000 people in Ireland are living with the condition without knowing it, often managing symptoms for years without a clear explanation. 

These symptoms can range from digestive issues to less obvious signs such as chronic fatigue, persistent mouth ulcers, brain fog, and unexplained nutrient deficiencies like anaemia. Because of this broad spectrum, coeliac disease is frequently overlooked or mistaken for other conditions. 

This year’s awareness campaign is encouraging a shift in how people think about these symptoms, prompting individuals to consider whether coeliac disease could be an underlying cause, and whether it has ever been fully ruled out. In many cases, testing begins with a simple blood test carried out while the individual is still consuming gluten. As an accessible and non-invasive first step, it offers a practical way to begin seeking answers. 

Without diagnosis and treatment, coeliac disease can lead to serious long-term health complications, including malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, and an increased risk of certain cancers. While there is no cure, once identified, the condition can be effectively managed through a strict gluten-free diet, often resulting in a significant improvement in quality of life. 

Throughout the month, the Coeliac Society of Ireland will be encouraging public engagement across its social channels, inviting people to share their experiences and perspectives. By opening up the conversation, the campaign aims to help more people recognise the signs and feel empowered to explore possible causes for their symptoms, including the question of whether coeliac disease may be involved. 

Speaking about her experience with coeliac disease, Pamela O’Hanlon from Co. Dublin, who was finally diagnosed 10 years ago in her 30s said:

“For years, I was in the dark about what was causing my symptoms, from stomach pain and bloating to fatigue and mouth ulcers. It wasn’t until I was diagnosed in my 30s that everything finally made sense. Looking back ten years later, that diagnosis was a turning point. Adjusting to a strict gluten-free diet was a big change, but it has made a huge difference to my day-to-day life and overall wellbeing.”

Speaking about the awareness drive for Coeliac Awareness Month, Sarah Keogh, CORU Registered Dietitian said:  

“Many people across Ireland live with symptoms they may not realise could be linked to coeliac disease. Because it can present in different ways, from fatigue and low nutrient levels to digestive issues, it’s often overlooked or mistaken for other conditions. Those with a close family member, a parent, sibling or child, should be particularly mindful, as their risk increases to 1 in 10. If symptoms persist, people should feel empowered to visit their GP and ask a simple question: ‘Have you ruled out coeliac disease?’ A straightforward blood test could provide clarity and, for many, the answer.” 

The Coeliac Society of Ireland’ Coeliac Awareness Month is proudly sponsored by Promise Gluten Free. Expressing their continued dedication to the cause, Kaitlyn Sercovich, Assistant Brand Manager at Promise Gluten Free said: “We’re delighted to partner once again with the Coeliac Society of Ireland in support of Coeliac Awareness Month. At Promise Gluten Free, we understand the importance of providing high-quality, great-tasting gluten-free options that people with coeliac disease can trust and enjoy every day. As we continue to grow our range and improve availability, our focus remains on empowering consumers with more choice – making gluten-free living not only easier, but truly enjoyable and inclusive.” 

Don’t live with uncertainty. If symptoms persist, talk to your GP and consider whether coeliac disease has been ruled out. For more information on coeliac disease, visit www.coeliac.ie 

Slán go fóíll.