BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA 
 
A PROCLAMATION 
 
CELIAC DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH 
 
WHEREAS: WHEREAS: WHEREAS: 
WHEREAS: WHEREAS: THEREFORE: 
 
One out of every 133 people is diagnosed with celiac disease, a genetic disorder. Affecting 3 percent of the population, roughly three million individuals struggle with this condition; and 
A growing number of people who do not have celiac disease are diagnosed with non-celiac gluten sensitivity. In 2012, gluten sensitivity was classified by an international group of experts on the disorder as a legitimate condition that affects up to ten times more people than celiac disease; and 
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition for which the only treatment is to follow a gluten-free diet for life. This digestive disease results in damage to the intestine when affected individuals come into contact with gluten. The resulting malabsorption of nutrients leads to vitamin deficiencies and can also lead to the development of Diabetes and Crohn's Disease; and 
Gluten is a protein found in many foods. People with celiac disease must avoid wheat, rye, barley, and their derivatives to keep from damaging their intestines and immune system. These individuals must also eat gluten-free oats as they can become cross contaminated with wheat during harvest and processing; and 
Symptoms of celiac disease are different for everyone, but they may include diarrhea, gas, bloating, constipation, nausea, weight loss, anemia, chronic fatigue, muscle cramps, and lapses in memory; now 
I, NATHAN DEAL, Governor of the State of Georgia, do hereby proclaim May 2014 as CELIAC DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH in Georgia and urge our citizens to learn more about this disorder which has a growing impact on our state. 
In witness thereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the Executive Department to be affixed this 17th day of April in the year of our Lord two thousand fourteen. 
 
ATTEST 
 
GOVERNOR