The Senate Resolution introduced by various senators recognizes May 2025 as "Celiac Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania. This initiative aims to raise awareness about celiac disease, a serious autoimmune condition affecting genetically predisposed individuals, where gluten ingestion leads to damage in the small intestine. The resolution highlights the growing prevalence of celiac disease, which is estimated to impact approximately 3 million Americans, including over 130,000 residents of Pennsylvania. It emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, as many individuals remain undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years, and underscores the severe health risks associated with gluten consumption for those affected.
The resolution also points out the significant underfunding of celiac disease research compared to its impact, with the National Institutes of Health providing minimal financial support. It calls for increased awareness to improve diagnosis rates, encourage policy changes for better access to services, and promote research funding. By designating May 2025 as "Celiac Awareness Month," the Senate aims to educate the public and medical community about the challenges faced by individuals with celiac disease, ultimately working towards reducing stigma and improving health outcomes for those affected.