Like most autoimmune conditions, coeliac disease is more commonly diagnosed in women than in men. In fact, coeliac disease can be twice as common, both in diagnosed and undiagnosed cases.

What is the ratio of women to men?

According to Beyond Coeliac, 60% to 70% of people diagnosed with coeliac disease are women – that’s around two thirds. This figure has been confirmed by several studies. Research by Glutafin’s sister company, Dr Schaer, found coeliac disease diagnosis was twice as common in women. Other studies have found ratios of 1.85:1 and 2-2.2:1 women to men for diagnosed coeliac disease.

Similar ratios are found between women and men for undiagnosed coeliac disease. One meta-analysis of 87 different studies, covering over 290,000 people, found undiagnosed coeliac disease in 0.589% of women but only 0.415% of men – a ratio of 1.4:1. 

Women have also been shown to be diagnosed earlier than men. With one study showing an average age at diagnosis of 44.5years for women and 48.9years for men.

Why are more women diagnosed with coeliac disease than men?

Women are known to be more prone to autoimmune conditions than men, although the reasons behind this are not yet fully understood. It may be genetic, hormonal or down to differences in the gut microbiota, or perhaps a combination of these factors. All of these theories are still being investigated.

Since people with one autoimmune condition are more likely to develop others, this may explain part of the reason for more women being diagnosed with coeliac disease.

There may also be certain other factors that lead to more women being diagnosed with coeliac disease than men, including differences in symptoms between the two genders. For example, studies show that women are more likely to experience constipation and to show low ferritin (blood iron) levels than men.

One theory suggests that ‘women are more likely to have abdominal complications due to hormonal fluctuations, which they are more likely to bring to the attention of their GP’ which, in turn, may lead to a diagnosis of coeliac disease. Another theory is that because coeliac disease can impact fertility, it is more likely to be investigated in women than men, especially when no other typical coeliac symptoms are present.

Why does it matter?

Correct diagnosis and the treatment of coeliac disease is important for anyone, but it is especially important for you if you’re a woman, as it can lead to a number of gender-specific issues. 

Undiagnosed coeliac disease has been found to play a role in 4%-8% of unexplained infertility. Untreated coeliac disease can also increase the risk of menstrual problems and pregnancy complications. For those with coeliac disease, following a strict gluten free diet will reduce these risks and help  protect your fertility. 

What’s more, hormonal changes during menopause make women more prone to osteoporosis, leaving you at risk of weaker bones and fractures. Untreated coeliac disease can make your condition worse, as you aren’t able to absorb sufficient calcium from your diet to maintain good bone health. 

What this means for you

The higher rates of coeliac disease in women, and the greater impact of the disease on both reproduction and bone health. This means that it is essential for all women to get tested if they have coeliac symptoms. Even if you have no typical coeliac symptoms, but are experiencing unexplained fertility issues, it is still worth getting checked.

Getting diagnosed with coeliac disease means you can start the highly effective treatment of a gluten free diet. Being diagnosed with coeliac disease could also give you access to the tasty range of gluten free food on prescription from Glutafin, depending on where you live, including our brilliant new fresh bread.

If you think you may have coeliac disease, talk to your doctor today. Getting diagnosed with coeliac disease is the first step on your road to recovery.

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