Doctors at a new celiac center in Philadelphia are helping to speed diagnosis of the autoimmune disorder. Part of the Jefferson Digestive Disease Institute, a division of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, the Celiac Center is dedicated to identifying and treating celiac disease in adults.

According to the Philadelphia Business Journal:

“We diagnose anywhere from one to three new patients a week with celiac disease,” said Dr. Anthony J. Marino, director of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital’s division of gastroenterology and hepatology and director of the Celiac Center. “That’s a substantial number of new patients. Most adult patients have had celiac disease their whole life but just don’t know it. We feel that there is a need in the community for a comprehensive center to diagnose, treat and educate people on celiac disease and that is why we established the new center.”

Jefferson University Hospitals has demonstrated support for the celiac community and is the title sponsor for this year’s Appetite for Awareness, the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness’ trademark event.

The Philadelphia Business Journal also noted that Main Line Health opened a Celiac Center at Paoli Hospital last March. NFCA Founder Alice Bast recently spoke to celiac patients and community members at Paoli, which is based in the Philadelphia suburbs.