Adesão à dieta isenta de glúten por adultos com doença celíaca no contexto do Nordeste Brasileiro

Abstract

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition triggered by the ingestion of gluten, requiring a diet strictly free of this protein to prevent complications. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the factors that affect this adherence will not only contribute to improving clinical management, but will also allow for the development of more effective support strategies, taking into account the cultural and socio-economic peculiarities of this region. This study aimed to analyze adherence to the gluten-free diet by adults with celiac disease living in the Northeast of Brazil. This is a quantitative, cross-sectional survey, carried out between December 2024 and February 2025, using an electronic questionnaire posted on social networks, on the profiles of organizations aimed at people with celiac disease. The responses included 122 volunteers, the majority of whom were female (93.4%), had completed higher education (84%) and an income of between 3 and 10 salaries (50.8%). The majority of participants were residents of Pernambuco, Ceará and Rio Grande do Norte (68%). The results showed that the main obstacle to adhering to this diet was the high price of gluten-free products (63.1%), in addition to cross-contamination being well cited in the comments section. In addition, the northeastern cuisine, based on corn, cassava, rice and beans, was cited by 96.4% as facilitating the diet. The conclusion is that financial accessibility and food safety are the main challenges faced, highlighting the need for public policies that intensify the inspection of products labeled as gluten free, subsidize gluten-free foods and promote the training of food handlers. In addition, valuing local food culture is an effective strategy for improving adherence to the diet and the quality of life of people with celiac disease.