Celiac disease is a chronic condition of the small intestine caused by the intake of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals, and has been recognized as a “social disease” since 2005. According to Rocco Laguardia, president of the Italian Celiac Association (AIC) Basilicata, there are 1,850 celiacs registered in the region in 2022 and around 220,000 in Italy, but this represents only the tip of the iceberg as many celiacs remain undiagnosed.
One of the main problems raised by Laguardia concerns the high cost of gluten-free products. In Basilicata, we are trying to face this challenge thanks to the use of the “Celiac Card,” which allows those suffering from celiac disease to make purchases not only in pharmacies and specialized shops but also in supermarkets and online. However, there are still reports of irregularities, especially in school canteen services, as well as long waiting lists in the regional reference centers for disease control (ASM Matera and AOR San Carlo di Potenza).
Projects for Celiac Disease in Basilicata
AIC Basilicata is leading various initiatives to address celiac disease in the region. These include a “Food Out of Home” project to inform restaurateurs and private businesses about gluten-free cooking and a project called “At the school of celiac disease,” which trains students from the hotel institutes of Potenza, Melfi and Matera on gluten-free cooking. . Furthermore, a pilot project is being planned to screen part of the population for celiac disease and diabetes.
Throughout the region, numerous initiatives are organized to spread information about celiac disease, in particular during the National Celiac Disease Week which takes place every year in May. AIC Basilicata collaborates with schools and other organizations to raise awareness of the gluten-free diet and provide support for celiacs.