The Association tunisienne de la maladie cœliaque (ATMC) has called for the implementation of a law granting a monthly allowance of 130 dinars to low-income celiac patients. The law, part of the 2026 finance bill, aims to support patients from poor or limited-income families who are beneficiaries of the "Amen Social" program. According to the ATMC, no families have received this allowance despite it being mandated by law.
The 2026 finance law, specifically Article 35, provides for a monthly allowance of 130 dinars to be given to each celiac patient from a poor or limited-income family registered in the "Amen Social" program. This allowance is intended to help cover the costs of purchasing food products. An implementing decree, published on July 14, 2026, outlines the conditions and modalities for granting this aid.
Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive system, resulting from an abnormal reaction of the immune system to gluten, a protein found primarily in certain cereals such as wheat and barley. In people with celiac disease, consuming gluten causes damage to the lining of the small intestine, particularly the intestinal villi responsible for nutrient absorption.
The damage caused by celiac disease can lead to poor absorption of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Symptoms of the disease vary from person to person but commonly include chronic diarrhea, malnutrition, weight loss, anemia, and growth retardation in children. A precise diagnosis requires blood tests and intestinal biopsy.
Currently, there is no medicinal treatment for celiac disease. Management of the condition relies essentially on strict adherence to a gluten-free diet for life, involving the avoidance of foods made from wheat, barley, and rye, as well as correcting nutritional deficiencies when necessary.
The ATMC's appeal comes as the association highlights the financial burden that celiac disease patients face due to the high cost of gluten-free products. The monthly allowance is seen as a crucial step towards alleviating some of this financial strain.
The implementation of the law granting the monthly allowance remains pending, with no official statement from the Tunisian authorities on when the allowance will be disbursed to eligible families. The ATMC continues to advocate for the rights of celiac patients.
Key points
- The ATMC urges authorities to implement a law granting a 130-dinar monthly allowance to low-income celiac patients.
- Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that requires a strict gluten-free diet for life.
- The allowance aims to support patients from poor or limited-income families registered in the "Amen Social" program.
