Canadian Celiac Association

The Canadian Celiac Association (CCA) is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to providing services and support to individuals with celiac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis through programs of awareness, advocacy, education, and research. Celiac disease is a condition in which the absorptive surface of the small intestine is damaged due to ingestion of foods containing gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and oats. Due to impaired intestinal absorption of nutrients (malabsorption), affected individuals may experience diarrhea, vomiting, swelling (distension) of the abdomen, muscle wasting, and other symptoms and findings. In addition, in some cases, affected individuals may develop a distinctive rash (dermatitis herpetiformis) that is thought to represent an immune response to dietary gluten. The Canadian Celiac Association was established in 1972 and currently has 24 local chapters throughout Canada. The purpose of the association is to assist its affiliated chapters and to represent their members’ needs at the national level. The association is committed to increasing awareness of celiac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis among healthcare professionals and the public; providing current information about these conditions and gluten-free foods; acting as an advocate for individuals with celiac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis, and encouraging and promoting research.