The full answer
It affects roughly 1 in 100 people worldwide
Celiac disease is estimated to affect about 1% of the population in most studied regions, making it one of the more common chronic autoimmune conditions — comparable in prevalence to type 1 diabetes. Rates appear broadly similar across many countries where it has been studied, though awareness and diagnosis rates vary a lot more than the underlying prevalence does.
The gap between prevalence and diagnosis
A large share of people with celiac disease are believed to remain undiagnosed, in part because it can be silent or symptom-free and in part because its symptoms overlap with far more common conditions like IBS. For general population statistics, the NIDDK’s overview of celiac disease causes and prevalence is a good starting point.
Important context
Individual symptoms, reactions, medical histories, food products, and local labeling rules can vary. Community experiences are not medical evidence.
For personal medical decisions, diagnosis, testing, or treatment, consult a qualified healthcare professional.