Did you know that for many people with coeliac disease, adhering to a gluten-free diet isn’t just a lifestyle choice, but a strict medical necessity? WRI researchers are calling upon people living with coeliac disease in Australia to participate in research to map the quality of life in this current cost-of-living crisis and whether this is impacting their ability to adhere to a gluten-free diet.
Coeliac Disease
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder where ingesting gluten – a protein found in wheat, barley and rye – triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine, leading to serious health consequences. This makes a strict gluten-free diet essential.
Financial Strain and Coeliac Disease: A Growing Concern
The cost of groceries in Australia has risen dramatically in recent years, and for people with coeliac disease, this can have a direct impact on their ability to maintain a gluten-free diet. Gluten-free products, which are essential for those living with the condition, tend to be more expensive than their gluten-containing counterparts. As the financial burden of everyday living rises, this dietary necessity is becoming a struggle for many. But how much of an impact is this having on adherence to the gluten-free diet?
A new research study aims to uncover the answer. The study is designed to assess the effects of financial stress on diet adherence for individuals with coeliac disease, as well as to understand the wider impact of financial stress on their quality of life.
The Survey: Your Voice Matters
If you have coeliac disease, are a parent of a child or a partner/relative/carer of someone living with coeliac disease in Australia, you are invited to participate in this important survey. It will take approximately 10 minutes to complete, and your responses will be vital in mapping out how financial challenges may affect adherence to a gluten-free diet.
The findings could lead to tangible benefits, including proposals for government assistance programs for those struggling to meet the dietary needs associated with coeliac disease. For example, subsidies for gluten-free groceries and dining options could be a future policy recommendation based on the study’s results. Moreover, the study may reveal the urgent need for additional support systems for individuals with coeliac disease and their families who are struggling financially.
Why This Study is Needed Now More Than Ever
A review of global research consistently shows that individuals with coeliac disease experience a lower health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) compared to the general population, with dietary non-adherence being a significant contributing factor. Yet, despite the recognised challenges of adhering to a gluten-free diet, there has been little research conducted in Australia specifically focused on the financial pressures that might impact GFD adherence.
As the financial burden of living in Australia continues to rise, particularly for groceries and dining out, this study is timely. It seeks to understand if financial stress is a barrier for individuals with coeliac disease, especially in the context of the current economic climate.
Your Participation Could Make a Difference
Your participation is crucial. By completing the survey, you will help provide a clearer picture of the challenges faced by people living with coeliac disease and contribute to potential solutions that could significantly improve the quality of life for those affected.
Who can participate?
We welcome participation from people living in Australia who are:
- Adults (18 years and over) diagnosed with coeliac disease
- Adolescents 13-17 years of age responding for themselves under the supervision of a guardian
- Parents or primary carers of children with coeliac disease
- First-degree relatives (parents, siblings, children) of someone with coeliac disease
- People who live with someone diagnosed with coeliac disease
At the end of the survey, participants will have the opportunity to enter a draw for one of ten $100 Prezzee gift cards, redeemable at over 400 retailers across Australia.
What’s involved?
You will complete an online survey about your experiences with coeliac disease. The survey takes 10–15 minutes, and all responses are confidential.
Why participate?
- Help improve support for people affected by coeliac disease
- Shape future programs, services, and research
- Share your voice to create better outcomes for Australians
For more details on this study, please visit the Wesley Research Institute webpage.
Note: Only survey responses will be collected, and no identifiable personal information will be stored. By participating in the survey, you consent to the collection and analysis of your responses for the purposes of this study.
A Step Towards Positive Change
This research is more than just a survey; it’s an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of people with coeliac disease. Financial strain is a serious issue, and its impact on adherence to a gluten-free diet cannot be ignored.
So, if you or someone you know is living with coeliac disease, take a few minutes to participate and contribute to this important work.