Untreated gluten intolerance may increase the risk of getting serious illnesses such as cancer, a new study by Danish researchers found.

The study showed that people with untreated intolerance to gluten – a protein found in wheat, rye and barley – may have a broad risk of getting cancer such as gastrointestinal, breast and ovarian cancer as well as cardiovascular diseases.

Researcher Line Lind Kårhus conducted the study with Professor Allan Linneberg of Bispebjerg Hospital.

Hidden factors
While the study is significant in understanding gluten intolerance, the researchers say it does not take into account hidden factors such as diet, smoking and alcohol, which can lead to diseases.

Kårhus said that more studies are needed to determine whether it would be advisable to offer a diagnosis of gluten intolerance for the entire population. Gluten intolerance or celiac disease is difficult to diagnose because its symptoms such as anemia and fatigue are diffuse.

The researchers called for international studies into celiac disease to determine the need for mass screening.

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