On the prevalence of adult coeliac disease in Sweden

Abstract

The occurrence of coeliac disease has been less recognized among adults than in children. We have examined the prevalence of adult coeliac disease in a defined population in Sweden, on the basis of results obtained during 7 years' gastroenterological routine practice. On 1 July 1979, the overall prevalence rate was found to be 58/100,000 (1:1700). The age-adjusted rates were unevenly distributed. The peak rate, 130/100,00 (1:750), appearing in the age interval of 45-54 years, indicates that unrecognized middle-aged coeliacs are not symptom-free and that they can be found in routine practice. Our peak rate of coeliac disease unaccompanied by dermatitis herpetiformis is in the same range as the rate found in Swedish children.