The Difficulties Experienced by Children with Celiac Disease in the Kahramanmaras Centered Earthquake in Turkey: A Qualitative Research


SUNA DAĞ Y., Zengin M., YAYAN E. H., Güleç G.

Journal of Pediatric Health Care, vol.39, no.3, pp.387-395, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 39 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2024.11.015
  • Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Health Care
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE
  • Page Numbers: pp.387-395
  • Keywords: celiac disease, Child, disasters, earthquakes
  • Inonu University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Introduction: In natural disasters, children encounter serious health problems. Method: This qualitative phenomenological study investigated the problems encountered by children with a diagnosis of celiac disease who lived in the earthquake region of Kahramahmaras in Turkey. Colaizzi method, a phenomenological research method, was used in the study. Data collection involved in-depth interviews conducted with the 'Introductory Information Form' and 'Semi-structured Interview Form,' both developed by the researchers. Results: This study was conducted with 17 children diagnosed with celiac disease living in the Kahramanmaras earthquake region of Turkey. Four main themes emerged from the data: (1) nutrition security and access problems, (2) dietary noncompliance, (3) psychological effects, and (4) difficulties in accessing health services. Conclusions: The earthquake not only disrupted the physical and emotional well-being of children with celiac disease but also highlighted systemic vulnerabilities in disaster preparedness and response for individuals with special dietary needs.