PATIENTS group Coeliac UK is warning scrapping special food prescriptions for sufferers in Hambleton, Richmondshire, Whitby and Harrogate could mean long term damage to health.

The clinical commissioning groups for the areas are planning to stop the special prescriptions which cost around £180,000 a year, except for disadvantaged children and pregnant women.

Celiacs disease is a reaction to gluten which is found in wheat, barley and rye and can cause severe health problems including damage to the intestines.

The only treatment is cutting out gluten in the diet. Sarah Sleet, chief executive of Coeliac UK said:” The provision of gluten free staple food on prescription is a vital element of the support offered to all patients by the NHS and it is essential to prevent long term damage to health.”

The charity say they are concerned the cuts will leave vulnerable patients without support.

“The potential serious long term health complications of not maintaining a gluten-free diet include osteoporosis, infertility and, in some rare cases, small bowel cancer, conditions that could cost the NHS a lot more in the long run,” added Ms Sleet.

The CCG’s argue gluten free food is now widely available, but Ms Sleet added:”The expansion of Free From aisles in large supermarkets masks the reality of very patchy provision. In particular, small stores and budget supermarkets have little, if any, gluten-free staples. Additionally, high prices make such products unaffordable for some. Both these issues put those most in need at risk.”

Consultation on the decision runs until July 21, go to www.hambletonrichmondshireandwhitbyccg.nhs.uk or www.harrogateandruraldistrictccg.nhs.uk/ for information .