Celiac disease in Cuba, forty years of experiences and realities for its diagnosis

Abstract:

Introduction: celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder of genetic nature caused by permanent gluten and prolamin intolerance. The world distribution and prevalence rate is 1%. The reports on the disease have increased worldwide in the last few years. Objective: to describe the efforts made for the diagnosis and treatment of celiac disease in children, adolescents and adults since the 70´s in Cuba and the significance for the Caribbean and the Latin American regions. Methods: search for information about the celiac disease in national and international medical publications; research reports; available original documents either published or unpublished; paper presentations in national and international events with detailed information of the history of disease in Cuba, measures carried out for the diagnosis; experiences and limitations. Development: the search underlined the demonstration of celiac disease existence and the impact on the Cuban infant population; the procedures adopted by the pediatric gastroenterologists in Cuba and the achievements of the health system. There was also shown the contribution of the immunoenzymatic method domestically developed for tissue antitransglutaminase antibodies and the creation of groups of celiac patient´s relatives as well as the limitations in diagnosis and treatment. The repercussions of the US economic blockade on Cuba in terms of the celiac disease were also pointed out. Final considerations: the diagnosis of celiac disease in the childhood represented a relevant event for that time in Cuba. The useful measures taken have had effects on several Caribbean and Latin American countries where prevalence rate is low. The main activities implemented for the diagnosis in the country including the production of a novel serological method were explained.

Año de publicación:

2016

Keywords:

• Cuba
• Health system
• Economic blockade
• celiac disease

Fuente:

scopus