Information in this section pertains to all global PEN® partners except where country flags are
visible. Click on the flag(s) for country-specific information. If a country flag is not listed, there is
no information specific to that country.
Disease Etiology
Celiac disease (CD) is a common autoimmune disorder that permanently affects the digestive system (1). CD is triggered in genetically susceptible individuals by the ingestion of gluten.
Gluten is a generic name given to storage proteins in wheat, barley and rye. In some countries, including Australia and New Zealand, oats are included in this list of grains to avoid. In wheat flour gluten binds and gives structure to bread, baked goods and other foods making it