Abstract Body

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

Reports suggest that gluten sensitivity exists in the absence of coeliac disease (CD). This clinical entity has been termed

non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). No data are available in primary care.

To determine the population prevalence of self-reported NCGS in primary care.

METHODS:

A population-based questionnaire screened for NCGS and related symptoms was administered to 18.624 patients of 14 General Practitioners’ clinics, aged >6 years living in the area of Bari. The questionnaire was self administered and blinded.

RESULTS:

2301 out of the total of 4500 (51%) questionnaires were recovered. Overall, 275 patients (8,4%; F:59%; mean age: 49 years referred a gluten related symptoms (mainly GI related) with a rapid onset after meals (39% of cases within six hours) and lasting from 6 months (74% of cases). First suspicion of gluten-related syntoms was placed from GPs (48%),45% self-diagnosis. 67% consulted a specialist: the majority ask an opinion to dieticians (33%), while 31% to the general doctors. 23% had diagnosed CD, 1% WA, 13% NCGS and 66% nothing. 55% underwent blood tests,42% endoscopy. 60% patients followed a gluten free diet (GFD): 24% continued it with benefit.

CONCLUSIONS:

Self-reported NCGS is commonly reported in primary care mainly in female adults, with symptoms suggesting irritable

bowel syndrome. GFD is often initiated without specialist consultation. This data stress the need to define a well defined

informative campaign and diagnostic protocol to counsel patients of GPs.