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- United States
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National Celiac Disease Awareness Day, observed every September 13, sheds light on this autoimmune disorder affecting millions. Celiac disease involves an immune reaction to gluten, damaging the small intestine and impairing nutrient absorption. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, and how to advocate for better understanding and support.
Want to sponsor National Celiac Disease Awareness Day? Learn how
Expected National Celiac Disease Awareness Day Deals
For National Celiac Disease Awareness Day, the focus shifts from commercial deals to vital fundraising and awareness initiatives. Organizations like the Celiac Disease Foundation and the National Celiac Association partner with brands to drive support. Look for special donation matching programs from companies like Schär and Glutino, who frequently support celiac research and advocacy through product sales or direct contributions. Many local restaurants and grocery stores with robust gluten-free offerings, such as Whole Foods Market and Trader Joe’s, often highlight their certified gluten-free products and may host educational events. Online retailers specializing in gluten-free foods, such as Thrive Market, might offer special discounts on celiac-friendly products. We will update this page with confirmed live initiatives as September 13 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Celiac Disease Awareness Day
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #CeliacAwarenessDay. Share personal stories or educational infographics about celiac disease.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #CeliacAwarenessDay. Engage in discussions about gluten-free living and research breakthroughs.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #CeliacAwarenessDay. Post visually appealing gluten-free recipes or highlight safe dining options.
National Celiac Disease Awareness Day Hero
Dr. Willem Karel Dicke
National Celiac Disease Awareness Day timeline
Greek physician, Aretaeus, gives one of the first descriptions of celiac disease, which the doctor calls," koiliakos," an abdominal infection.
​​American physician, Christian Herter, publishes a book on children afflicted with what he dubs "intestinal infantilism."
Scientists in Birmingham, England, link celiac disease with gluten for the first time.
National Celiac Disease Awareness Day FAQs
When is National Celiac Disease Awareness Day?
National Celiac Disease Awareness Day 2026 falls on Sunday, September 13. It’s a crucial day to educate yourself and others about this autoimmune condition.
How many people are affected by celiac disease?
Approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide are affected by celiac disease, though many remain undiagnosed. In the United States, an estimated 3 million individuals live with the condition.
What is the economic impact of celiac disease?
The economic impact of celiac disease is substantial, including healthcare costs for diagnosis and management, as well as the increased expense of gluten-free foods. The global gluten-free market alone is valued in the billions of dollars.
What is the difference between celiac disease and gluten sensitivity?
Celiac disease is a genetic autoimmune disorder where gluten consumption leads to small intestine damage. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) involves similar symptoms but without the autoimmune response or intestinal damage, making diagnosis more challenging.
How to Observe National Celiac Disease Awareness Day
Try a gluten-free diet
Some people — unaware of their own sensitivity to gluten — find that they feel much better when they stop eating foods containing the protein. As more information comes out about celiac disease, more people will make life-changing decisions to lead gluten-free lives.
Learn where gluten hides
Foods like soups, salad dressings and soy sauce can unexpectedly contain gluten. If you're eating out, don't be afraid to ask if a food contains gluten.
Reading food labels
This is always good advice, whether you're suffering from celiac disease or not. One of the best ways to monitor our health is to monitor what we put in our bodies.
5 Life-saving Facts To Know About Celiac Disease
​Who gets it?
Celiac disease is more common in Caucasians, women, people with Down syndrome, and patients with type 1 diabetes.
​Gluten sensitivity and celiac disease are different
​People with gluten sensitivity may experience bloating and diarrhea — but only people with celiac disease have compromised immune systems as a result of this disease.
​The numbers are rising
The number of Americans with celiac disease is increasing — possibly due to increased awareness and better diagnostic techniques.
​Childhood symptoms
​Digestive symptoms are more common in infants and children. These include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation.
​Adult symptoms
​The list is fairly long: watch for (among other symptoms) unexplained iron-deficiency anemia, fatigue, bone or joint pain, arthritis, osteoporosis or osteopenia (bone loss), liver disorders and depression.
Why National Celiac Disease Day is Important
It helps researchers follow and record undiagnosed cases
The University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center estimates that about 97 percent of celiac cases go undiagnosed in the U.S., leaving many people to suffer needlessly.
It leads to questions — and hopefully, answers
It's the perfect time to ask questions about our overall health, especially since so many people are unaware that celiac disease can affect parts of the body that seem unrelated to the digestive system (e.g., skin rash, joint pain).
It may affect you or someone you know
Celiac disease reportedly affects one percent of all Americans, so this observance can help spread valuable information. Spread the word!
National Celiac Disease Awareness Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | September 13 | Sunday |
| 2027 | September 13 | Monday |
| 2028 | September 13 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | September 13 | Thursday |
| 2030 | September 13 | Friday |
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