Gluten‐free schooling: Navigating challenges and triumphs for children with celiac disease

• DOI: 10.1002/jpr3.70013
• Publication Date: 2025-03-11T16:22:39Z
• Authors: Vanessa Weisbrod; Nasim Khavari; Imad Absah; Dale Lee; Danny Mallon; Catherine Raber; Vahe Badalyan; Mary Shull; Ritu Verma; Ashley Dunn; Anava Wren; Farah Mardini; Lisa Fahey; Jocelyn Silvester; Tracy Ediger; Maureen Leonard; Javier A. Lopez‐R...; Hilary Jericho
• Keywords: Gluten free

Celiac disease (CeD), an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion, induces intestinal inflammation and varied symptoms. Treatment entails a strict gluten-free diet (GFD), posing challenges for students, especially in schools with limited food choices. Nonadherence worsens symptoms, yet research on CeD's impact students is scarce. The CeliacKIDS study, conducted across 11 United States academic medical centers, evaluated exposure risk pediatric CeD patients via cross-sectional survey from August 2020 to 2021. Participants recruited treating institutions were approved respective Institutional Review Boards. One hundred sixty children aged 5-18 (65% female, 34% male, 1% other) participated. Only 12% had GF options at school, 31% brought their own celebrations, 41% lacked free (GF) snacks after school. Thirty-six percent 504 plan, 5% misinformed. Hand hygiene concerns included 24% using sanitizer 10% rarely washing hands before eating. Sixty-two disclosed CeD, 35% when prompted, 3% refused, mainly 13-year-old males. Two hesitated request options, 2% consumed potentially gluten-containing friends. Many US provide accommodations under the Americans Disabilities Act (ADA) but lack national standards. Diverse education GF-safe practices are crucial GFD adherence. Discrepancies parent-child perceptions emphasize need better communication. Adolescents, particularly females 12-13 2+ years diet, face higher risks. Transparent family-school communication vital optimizing school experience ensuring Comprehensive nationwide training essential celiac patients' well-being.