Transitioning from paediatric to adult care for people with chronic illnesses is crucial to avoid gaps in treatment, but this hasn’t been thoroughly explored in celiac disease (CD). The purpose of this study was to determine the rates and determinants of effective transfer of care for young people with CD diagnosed as a child. An anonymous 21-question online survey was emailed to everyone on our center’s email contact list, asking for replies from people aged 18 to 25 who had been diagnosed with CD before the age of 18. Method of diagnosis, demographics, CD-related care, reasons for not seeking care, and symptoms were all collected. The respondents, 70% of whom were women, had a median age of 21 years. The vast majority were either full-time or part-time students. Only 31% of those polled had successfully switched to an adult CD provider. Some 37% did not receive any CD medical treatment. An earlier age upon diagnosis was linked to a successful transition to adult gastroenterology, as well as higher symptom ratings. A recommendation for continued adult CD care indicated a smooth transition to an adult provider.
Transition of care for young individuals with CD is inconclusive, especially among asymptomatic patients. Receiving a recommendation for an adult provider boosts follow-up rates considerably.
