Researchers in Montreal have launched a study into the genetic make-up of celiac disease sufferers and their families, with the goal of improving early diagnoses of the autoimmune disorder.

The disease creates an intolerance to gluten, a protein found in flour and several cereals, and results in inflammatory destruction of the small intestine, which is responsible for the absorption of food. Symptoms include bloating, cramps, nausea, anemia, irritability and depression.

Celiac disease is considered the most common genetic disorder in Europe and North America, the researchers said, affecting an estimated 76,000 Quebecers and more than 300,000 Canadians.

The study, based at Montreal's Sainte-Justine hospital, will look at saliva samples from 500 families who have at least one member with the disorder, with the hope of identifying family members who are at risk of developing celiac disease.

Researchers will also look at methods needed to confirm diagnoses, such as biopsies, and prevention strategies.

More than 350 families have already registered to participate in the study.

Currently, many cases with atypical or asymptomatic forms of the disease go undiagnosed because of a lack of information and poor access to diagnostic tests, the researchers said in a release.

"The majority of patients with this disease are not diagnosed because it's a relatively latent, or silent, disease so we would hope through this genetic study we would be able to identify people who are at risk for developing the disease eventually," Dr. Claude Roy, a gastroenterologist at the hospital, told CBC News. 

He said early detection of the disease can help stave off other problems such as asthma and diabetes.
 
"This study will help us to better understand the history of the disease in Quebec, and could be applied not only Canada-wide but also internationally," said study director Dr. Idriss Saiah in a release. 

Souer Angèle, spokesperson for the activities organized around the Quebec Celiac Foundation's 25th anniversary, said the study is "even better" than spreading the word about the disease.

"It is important that Quebecers be aware of the symptoms of the disease so they can consult a specialist and finally find a solution to their ailment," she said in a release.

The researchers said they hope to have results from the study in three years.