BRACE-1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The association between bone fractures and coeliac disease – is there a role for coeliac disease screening in fracture clinics?
IRAS ID
318226
Contact name
Ajay M Verma
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Kettering General Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 30 days
Research summary
Coeliac disease is a medical condition where the body has an allergic reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When someone with coeliac disease eats gluten, it causes inflammation in their small intestine, which can lead to diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and other symptoms. It is a common condition with an approximate UK prevalence of 1%, and most individuals with coeliac disease are undiagnosed as lots of people with coeliac disease don't have any symptoms, and therefore they don't know they have it or their doctor doesn't recognize the symptoms. Coeliac disease can also affect bone health, as the body may not be able to absorb enough vitamin D, which can lead to osteoporosis or osteopenia (weaker bones). A study is being conducted to test the blood of adults with fractures for coeliac disease by looking for certain proteins (called coeliac antibodies). If the test is positive, the person will be referred to a gastroenterology specialist for further testing to see if they have coeliac disease. The goal of the study is to provide evidence for the recommendation of testing for coeliac disease in people with fractures.
REC name
East Midlands - Leicester Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/EM/0058
Date of REC Opinion
17 May 2023
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion