Celiac and hormones, cross diagnosis for more effective prevention

ROMA (ITALPRESS) – On the occasion of the World Ormoni Day (24 April), promoted by ESE (European Society of Endocrinology) and supported by AME Association of Endocrinologists, attention is given to the importance of hormones for general health and the central role of endocrinologist in the prevention, diagnosis and management of numerous pathologies. Hormones regulate vital functions: metabolism, growth, fertility, energy balance and stress response. Even minimal alterations of the endocrine system can have a significant impact on the quality of life, often with little specific or difficult symptoms to recognize. Precisely for this reason, a timely specialist assessment can make a difference in early detection of still unclear conditions. In recent years, scientific research has shown a close correlation between celiac disease and endocrine diseases, particularly those of autoimmune nature. The celiac disease, in fact, is not only an intestinal pathology, but a systemic condition can be associated with other hormonal dysfunctions, affecting different organs and apparatuses. In Italy, approximately 280.000 celiac diagnosis is estimated, but the real number is much higher, with a large submerged of undiagnosed people. This bond is based on common mechanisms, including shared genetic predisposition and an altered immune response, which can lead the body to attack not only the intestine but also the endocrine glands. Among the most frequently related endocrine pathologies are: Autoimmune thyroiditis (up to 3-4 times more frequent in celiacs); Type 1 diabetes (prevalence of celiac up to 3-12%); Adrenal insufficiency (risk up to 11 times higher). At the same time, patients already suffering from autoimmune endocrine disorders are more likely to develop celiac disease, often in a silent form or with blurred symptoms. In patients with type 1 diabetes, about 1 out of 10 may also be celiac. An additional element of complexity is the fact that undiagnosed celiac can interfere with the absorption of essential drugs and nutrients, with possible repercussions on the management of endocrine therapies and the overall metabolic balance. The message of AME for the World Day of Hormonies is clear: it is essential to promote an integrated and multidisciplinary approach to health. “If you are celiac, it is advisable to carry out an endocrinological evaluation: you may have undiagnosed associated conditions. If you suffer from an endocrine pathology, in particular autoimmune, you should consider screening for celiac disease.” Endocrinologist plays a key role in identifying these connections, contributing to early diagnosis and more effective management of pathologies. The collaboration between specialists is now increasingly central to ensure a complete diagnostic and therapeutic path. Investing in prevention means improving the quality of patient life and reducing the risk of complications. A greater awareness of the link between celiac disease and endocrine disorders is a fundamental step towards a more personalized medicine. On the occasion of the World Hormone Day, the invitation is addressed to citizens and health professionals: listening to your body, not underestimate the signals and relying on specialists for a complete health path. -photo press office AME – (ITALPRESS).

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