SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb., – What causes celiac disease? Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When some people are exposed to gluten in their diet, an enzyme called tissue transglutaminase changes the gluten into a chemical that causes an immune response, leading to celiac disease; an inflammation of the lining of the small intestine. Celiac disease can be difficult to diagnose since there are over 200 known symptoms that can occur in the digestive system or other parts of the body.

Regional West Diabetes Care Center’s monthly support group will welcome Mary Schluckebier, MA, Executive Director of the Celiac Support (Sprue) Association (CSA) USA, Inc. on Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 6 p.m., in Regional West Medical Plaza South, Room 1202.

CSA is a membership association pursuing a mission of helping to optimize the health of those with celiac disease and gluten sensitivities through research, education, and support.

The Diabetes Support Group promotes successful diabetes self-management. Each meeting is open to the public and there is no charge to attend. Each month offers attendees a new informational topic and speaker. 

For more information contact Marcia Bauer, R.D.N., C.D.E., L.M.N.T. at 308-630-2100.

Regional West Health Services in Scottsbluff, Neb., is the parent company of Regional West Medical Center, a 182-bed regional referral center and one of three Level II Trauma Centers in the state. As the region’s only tertiary referral medical center, Regional West offers care that spans more than 32 medical specialties provided by over 28 physician clinics. With nearly 300 providers, and over 2,000 employees, Regional West provides comprehensive and innovative health care services for the people of western Nebraska and the neighboring states of Colorado, South Dakota, and Wyoming.