DONATE

Blog Post #4: Kids, Families & the Future: Early Screening and Prevention of Celiac Disease

Insights from the Columbia University International Symposium on Celiac Disease – June 2025. Written by Caleigh McAulay, RD, Health Promotions Manager for Celiac Canada.


In May 2025, researchers, clinicians, and advocates from around the world gathered both in-person and virtually at Columbia University’s International Symposium on Celiac Disease. The event explored the latest advancements in diagnosis, treatment, global trends, and the future of care for people living with celiac disease and related conditions.
Celiac Canada attended to bring back insights for our community.

 

In this post, we discuss how celiac disease doesn’t just affect adults — it can start in childhood, and early detection is key to preventing long-term complications. At the 2025 Columbia Symposium on Celiac Disease, researchers shared promising new findings about pediatric risk factors, screening programs, and what families can do to reduce risk. 

Early Risk Factors & Prevention

  • Gluten intake in the first 3 years may influence celiac risk. High gluten consumption early in life could increase the chance of developing the disease. 
  • Diets rich in vegetables, legumes, and fiber, and low in refined sugars, may offer some protection. 
  • Breastfeeding doesn’t prevent celiac disease, but introducing gluten between 4 and 12 months of age in moderation is recommended. 

Genetic Screening: Who's At Risk?

  • Genetic testing (HLA typing) can help identify children at higher risk, especially those with a first-degree relative with celiac or those with two copies of the HLA-DQ2 gene. 
  • Italy is leading the way with nationwide pediatric screening supported by legislation — aiming to identify and manage celiac disease earlier. 

Screening Studies & Global Efforts

      • The ASK study in the U.S. screened over 40,000 children, including those without symptoms, and found that early diagnosis improves health outcomes and quality of life. 
      • Researchers are exploring the best ages and methods for screening — including combining antibody testing with genetic risk assessments. 

What This Means for Families

  • If you have a family history of celiac disease, talk to your healthcare provider about genetic testing and screening options for your children. 
  • Introducing gluten gradually during the recommended age window may reduce risk, but always consult with your pediatrician. 
  • Stay informed about emerging screening programs and support advocacy efforts for broader access in Canada. 

"Early diagnosis and intervention can change a child's health trajectory. The more we learn, the better we can protect future generations," says Caleigh McAulay, RD.

Celiac Canada is committed to supporting families with resources, guidance, and up-to-date research to help children thrive. Visit our children’s page for more information about our Growing Up Celiac kids program!

Read our past blog posts from the Columbia University International Symposium on Celiac Disease.

Beyond the Grocery Bill: Canadian Families Say the Gluten-Free Tax Credit Isn’t Enough

Beyond the Grocery Bill: Canadian Families Say the Gluten-Free Tax Credit Isn’t Enough Written by: Alyssa Ramuscak, Celiac Canada Research ...

Why We Need to Talk More About Men and Celiac Disease

Why We Need to Talk More About Men and Celiac Disease Written by: Alyssa Ramuscak, Celiac Canada Research Analyst,  August ...

Growing Up Gluten-Free: My Journey Through University with Celiac Disease

Growing Up Gluten-Free: My Journey Through University with Celiac Disease Written by: Anna Cowan, Celiac Canada Summer Student August 14, ...

Canada’s Gluten-Free Opportunity: Building a Food Superpower

Canada’s Gluten-Free Opportunity: Building a Food Superpower Written by Melissa Secord, National Executive Director of Celiac Canada,  August 10 , ...

Why Celiac Disease Belongs in the Women’s Health Conversation

Why Celiac Disease Belongs in the Women’s Health Conversation Celiac Canada is bringing community evidence to Parliament to advocate for ...

Can Adults Be Diagnosed With Celiac Disease Without a Biopsy? New UK Guidelines Explained

The UK's New Celiac Disease Guidelines Explained: What Canadians Should Know What Do the New Guidelines Mean for Canadians? Written ...

2025 Platinum Partner 2025 Gold Partner 2025 Silver Sponsor More sponsors

Could It Be Celiac? Take the Symptom Checklist

Help us change
the lives of Gluten-Free Canadians.

thumb Donate thumb Volunteer thumb Partner

Get our monthly newsletter.

News, hot topics, tips, education & more.

Help support the CCA by visiting our shop.

All proceeds will go towards supporting Canadians with Celiac.

Have a question? Ask CCA!

    X
    QUESTIONS?