By Barbara Erny, M.D.

When a child lacks energy, grows slowly, doesn't want to eat and is cranky, it could be simply their age. But, it could also be celiac disease (CD). CD is a genetic disorder that can affect both children and adults. In people with CD, eating certain types of proteins sets off an autoimmune response that interferes with the small intestine's ability to absorb the nutrients found in food, leading to malnutrition and a variety of complications. The offending proteins are found in wheat, barley, rye and to a lesser degree oats. The only known treatment at this time is a lifelong adherence to a diet free of these grains and their derivatives, commonly referred to as the Gluten-Free Diet (GFD). The Celiac Sprue Association (CSA) estimates that one in 130 people in the United States have CD – most of whom are undiagnosed. To improve diagnosis rates, the group has designated October as National Celiac Awareness Month. Visit the CSA Web site for more information, including the Cel-Kids Network, which includes information for kids and parents, recipes, games and more.

Cold and Flu Campaign (October)
www.lungusa.org

Fall is here and with it comes flu season. Health officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) and other groups strongly urge Americans to get vaccinated throughout the entire flu season (October through March). Recently, the CDC expanded its recommendation for annual flu vaccination to include all children (ages 6 months to 18 years). Studies have shown that vaccinating school age children also prevents the flu in high-risk populations, especially older people, by reducing the number of people in the community who can spread the flu. For more information, visit the flu sections of the CDC, American Lung Association and PAMF Web sites.

Kids Care Week (October 19 – 25)
www.kidscare.org

The PAMF Community Health Resource Centers in Fremont and Palo Alto are seeking vounteers to assist the health educator. Requirements for the position include a health care-related background, interpersonal, clerical and basic computer skills. Three hours per week and a minimum one-year commitment are requested. For more information and an application, please contact June Badal, R.N., at 650-614-3200.