FOCUS IN CD TARGETED EVENT
Problems of gluten content in food and the legislation regarding gluten-free products were discussed as well as importance of avoiding cross-contamination. The role of rapid celiac disease tests in diagnosing celiac disease was also presented. Alongside with celiac disease related issues, we also discussed non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
The local authorities who welcomed us emphasized the importance of the project for the region.
Alemka Mirkov reminded us about the aims of the project and the plans of all project partners. As the representative of regional authority, she emphasized the role of the project for elementary and high schools as well as for the NGO's.
A patient with celiac disease presented problems he had before his diagnosis was made. He visited many health care professionals who had not realized that his symptoms might be caused by celiac disease. He also presented his current health problems, which could not be explained by the celiac disease alone, and the doctors from the audience gave him medical advice and recommended additional tests.
Professor Palčevski presented the data about the knowledge and awareness of celiac disease among health care professionals in Croatia, with the main aim to improve the knowledge of the participants, which is often insufficient. He compared Croatian data with other countries.
Zrinjka Mišak from Zagreb presented an overview of current celiac disease diagnostic guidelines and discussed the role of rapid tests. She also presented the results of the study performed in Zagreb County with rapid tests.
A nutritionist Tena Niseteo from Zagreb spoke about the possible nutrition deficiencies, which can occur while following strict gluten-free diet. She emphasized the importance of dietetic counseling for the patients on gluten-free diet. Unfortunately, this service is not provided in all health institutions who take care of celiac disease patients.
Professor Umberto Volta from Bologna presented a lecture about non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) and the differences between celiac disease, NCGS and wheat allergy. He analyzed the studies in which different biomarkers for NCGS were tested. Health care professionals are not familiar with these three clinical entities therefore, further education is mandatory.
Vedrana Jurčević Podobnik presented a talk about gluten content in food and the legislation regarding gluten free products and importance of avoiding the cross-contamination as well as the role of the rapid test in diagnosing CD.
The meeting was found very useful and interesting by the audience consisting of different stakeholders.
