Bill > SR0253

This resolution declares May 2025 as Celiac Disease Awareness Month in Illinois, highlighting the significant challenges faced by individuals with this complex autoimmune condition. The resolution notes that celiac disease affects approximately three million Americans, with 70-80% remaining undiagnosed, and causes the body to attack its own small intestine, potentially leading to serious health complications like cancer. It emphasizes the disease's considerable economic impact through productivity losses and healthcare inefficiencies, pointing out that diagnosis typically takes four years and that the current treatment—a strict gluten-free diet—is limited, with up to 50% of patients continuing to experience symptoms and intestinal damage. By officially designating this awareness month, the resolution seeks to increase public understanding of celiac disease and encourages support for advancing biomedical research to develop improved diagnostic tools, more effective treatments, and ultimately a cure for this challenging condition.

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?DocNum=253&GAID=18&DocTypeID=SR&SessionID=114&GA=104