Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that occurs due to ingestion of a protein called gluten which is present in cereals. The AIIMS doctors conducted a study which covered 23,000 people out of which 0.6 per cent (1 in 160) had celiac disease. Celiac disease is not reported extensively in India, Makharia said, adding that the biggest impediment in its prevention and treatment was the limited awareness about the disease and its causes. Overall, celiac disease has now become a disease of public health importance," he said. Management of celiac disease involves a gluten-free diet primarily, he added.

Source: India Today September 08, 2017 18:33 UTC