September 13

National Celiac Disease Awareness Day

Show your support for those with Celiac Disease this National Celiac Disease Awareness Day - raise awareness and spread the message of gluten-free living!

Yearly Date

September 13

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Join us in celebrating National Celiac Disease Awareness Day on Sept. 13 by learning more about this condition and spreading awareness. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder caused by gluten intolerance, which affects over 3 million people in the United States alone. While it was first described back in the first century AD, it wasn't until the 1950s that researchers began to understand its cause and effects. Today, there are many resources available to help those affected live a healthy life free from symptoms of celiac disease. So let's come together on this day to raise awareness and support for individuals living with celiac disease!

National Celiac Disease Awareness Day Timeline

1800s

Celiac Disorder Described

Celiac disease was first mentioned in the scientific literature by a British doctor, Samuel Gee, during the late 1800s.

1950

Gluten Identified as Trigger

In the early 1950s, researchers discovered that gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, was the cause of the symptoms of celiac disease.

1998

Diagnostic Test Developed

The first reliable diagnostic test for celiac disease, an antibody blood test, was developed and widely adopted.

2004

Celiac Disease Awareness Day Declared

U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution designating September 13 as National Celiac Disease Awareness Day, honoring the birthday of Samuel Gee, who first described the disease.

2010

Gluten-Free Labeling Rule

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a rule defining the term "gluten-free" for voluntary use in food labeling, ensuring safer food options for people with celiac disease.

Present

Ongoing Research and Awareness

Ongoing research continues to advance understanding of celiac disease and potential treatments, while awareness days continue to bring attention to the autoimmune disorder.

How to Celebrate National Celiac Disease Awareness Day

1 Donate to a celiac disease cause

Make a donation to a local organization or charity that is dedicated to finding a cure for celiac disease or raising awareness about the condition.

2 Educate yourself about celiac disease

Take the time to research and learn about the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and management of celiac disease. Understanding the condition will help you better support those around you.

3 Stock up on gluten-free goodies

Head to your local grocery store and stock up on some gluten-free products. There are so many delicious and healthy options available now, so don’t feel limited by the gluten-free label.

4 Host a gluten-free potluck

Invite friends over for a gluten-free potluck. Ask each person to bring their favorite gluten-free dish and enjoy a delicious meal with your friends while also raising awareness about celiac disease.

5 Spread awareness on social media

Post about National Celiac Disease Awareness Day on your favorite social media platform. Share facts, stories, and resources to help spread awareness and understanding of the condition.

Why National Celiac Disease Awareness Day is Important

Raises awareness of celiac disease

National Celiac Disease Awareness Day helps to raise the visibility of this often overlooked condition, so more people can learn about the symptoms and get tested for it. By increasing awareness, we can ensure that those who need help can get the specialized care they require.

Supports research & treatments

By bringing attention to celiac disease on a national level, National Celiac Disease Awareness Day provides much needed support and funding for research on new treatments and potential cures. It helps to bring the medical community together to work towards better understanding and managing this complex autoimmune disorder.

Aims to improve quality of life

Living with celiac disease is not easy, but having access to resources and being empowered with knowledge can make it more manageable. National Celiac Disease Awareness Day works to increase acceptance in society too, so people living with celiac can live as normal a life as possible without fear of stigma or discrimination.