Celiac disease is a condition in which exposure to gluten from certain grains triggers an autoimmune reaction. Although American doctors have been taught that it is extremely rare, research over the past decade has shown it is actually far more common, with an incidence similar to that in Europe. Left untreated, celiac disease can cause serious health problems, including infertility, osteoporosis and cancer. But diagnosis sometimes takes years because the symptoms are not recognized. Find out how to recognize this dangerous disease and how it can be treated.
Guest:Peter Green, M.D., is Professor of Clinical Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, and the Director of the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University.
The People's Perspective on Medicine