Lead researcher
Dr Eleanor Thong
Main finding
Coeliac disease is 4 to 6 times more common in individuals with Type 1 diabetes, compared to the general population. Our study suggests that young adults with the dual autoimmune conditions of coeliac disease and Type 1 diabetes have a three-fold higher risk of fracture and hypoglycaemia (low blood sugars), compared to those with only Type 1 diabetes alone.
Centre
Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism
Research group
Bone, Joint and Cancer
Journal and article title
Most surprising
In our study population, patients who were vitamin D deficient (< 50 nmol/L) were at greater risk of hypoglycaemia, compared to those who were vitamin D replete. One other small study, albeit in a paediatric cohort, reported similar findings. Although the mechanism of vitamin D on hypoglycaemia is still unclear, it is thought to be a surrogate marker of general health and nutrition.
Future implications
Coeliac disease can interfere with carbohydrate absorption in the gut, leading to erratic blood sugar levels in patients with Type 1 diabetes. Clinicians should actively screen for hypoglycaemia in at-risk patients. Despite the increased risk of fracture in patients with concomitant Type 1 diabetes and coeliac disease, few had bone mineral density assessments performed. Both coeliac disease and Type 1 diabetes are known independent risk factors for fracture and bone health assessment in this cohort is recommended.
Disease/health impact
Type 1 diabetes mellitus, coeliac disease, bone health
