Abstract Celiac disease (CeD) is an autoimmune small bowel disease with prevalence varying by region and population. There is a lack of large-scale epidemiological data on CeD among permanent residents in Northwest China. This study aimed to explore the demographic, epidemiological, and laboratory features of CeD in this region, to support its prevention and control. From June 2022 to December 2023, a cross-sectional survey on CeD prevalence was carried out among 4602 permanent residents in 12 administrative districts of Northwest China. Serum anti-tissue transglutaminase IgA antibody levels were detected by chemiluminescence. For antibody-positive patients, gastroscopic duodenal histopathological examination was performed for confirmatiom of diagnosis. Demographic date, laboratory data, comorbidities, and medical history were collected and statistically analyzed. The serum prevalence of CeD was 1.26% (58/4602, 95% CI 0.96%–1.62%), while the biopsy-diagnosed prevalence was 1.02% (47/4602, 95% CI 0.75%–1.36%). Females had a higher prevalence than males (1.39% vs. 0.44%, P = 0.002). Among ethnic groups, Kazakhs had the highest CeD prevalence (2.74%), followed by Tajiks, Uygurs, and Han Chinese ( P < 0.001). Those at latitudes 40°N or higher were more likely to have CeD than those below 40°N ( P = 0.001). In Xinjiang, North Xinjiang had the highest prevalence (1.66%), followed by East and South Xinjiang ( P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in prevalence by age, BMI, or education. CeD prevalence was higher in the nephropathy group (6.67%). In Northwest China, the biopsy-diagnosed CeD prevalence was 1.02%. Prevalence differed by sex, ethnicity, latitude, and location. There was a significant link between CeD and renal diseases. Serological screening in high-prevalence areas is essential for early CeD diagnosis.
Shi et al. (Mon,) studied this question.