Perception of food availability for celiac patients of the "Celiacs of Paraguay" Group in Asunción. Year 2025

Abstract

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that requires a strict gluten-free diet; therefore, the availability and accessibility of suitable foods are key factors in ensuring a good quality of life. The general objective of this study was to describe the perception of people with celiac disease regarding the availability and accessibility of gluten-free products in the local market. The research was non-experimental, cross-sectional, and quantitative in nature, using a non-probability convenience sampling method. The study included 45 members of the “Celíacos del Paraguay” group. All respondents (100%) were adults, 95.5% were Paraguayan nationals, and 57.8% reported purchasing food on a weekly basis, indicating consistent organization in food acquisition. Regarding places of purchase, participants identified several supermarket chains, with Superseis being one of the main points of purchase. Concerning the perception of product availability, 66.6% considered gluten-free foods to be moderately available, while 33.3% reported finding them more easily, influenced by factors such as price, accessibility, and location. However, in terms of satisfaction with access to gluten-free products, 46.7% reported being slightly satisfied, 33.3% moderately satisfied, 13.3% satisfied, and 6.7% dissatisfied, revealing an overall trend toward partial satisfaction. In conclusion, the study highlights the need to expand the variety, availability, and accessibility of gluten-free foods, as well as to promote public policies and commercial strategies aimed at improving food inclusion and the quality of life of people with celiac disease in Asunción.