THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)
(a) &(b): Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has informed that they are aware
of reports on Celiac disease caused by ingestion of gluten containing food items in
susceptible children and adults from various parts of the country. ICMR has also informed
that Celiac disease is caused by an allergy to a protein (Gluten) in wheat, barley and rye.
It affects mainly those with a certain kind of genetic background. In the absence of trend
data, it is difficult to say whether it is increasing or not. Further, Directorate General
of Health Services (DGHS) has informed that Celiac disease data is not monitored at the
national level and higher prevalence of this disease has not been reported by any State/UT
to this Ministry.
(c) & (d): There is no such proposal in this Ministry at the moment.
(e): Health is a state subject. The diagnosis and management of the celiac disease is
the responsibility of the State Governments. However, the Gastro-enterology and other
relevant Departments of Central Government provide facility for diagnosis and management of
Celiac Disease. ICMR has recognized the clinical and public health relevance of Celiac disease
and has identified it as an area of research
