European and North American populations should be screened for coeliac disease

Abstract

Coeliac disease is a common condition in Europe and North America, with a prevalence approaching 1% in the general population. Clinical diagnosis is challenging, given the protean clinical manifestations of the disease. Specific and sensitive serological screening tests are currently available. There is a treatment available for the disease. If untreated, coeliac disease may result in lifelong complications. Currently the "best buy" to screen for the disease is a case finding approach.