Peanut and Tree Nut Allergies on the Rise
More and more, peanut allergies and tree nut allergies are being reported in adults and children across the country. According to the results of a study published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 3 million Americans reported having a peanut allergy, a TN allergy, or both.
According to the results of a study published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 3 million Americans reported having a peanut allergy, a TN allergy, or both.
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine were interested in studying this prevalence, due to data that demonstrates allergies to peanuts and TNs is the leading cause of fatal allergic reactions in the US. The prevalence of these allergies also seems to be on the rise.
The team designed a study that would examine data on the prevalence of the allergies in 2008, 2002, and 1997.
The study used nationwide, cross-sectional, random telephone surveys for peanut and TN allergies. The survey included a previously used questionnaire that was enhanced with additional questions about sesame allergies.
The survey went out to 13,534 subjects and received participation from 42%. Those reporting a peanut allergy, TN allergy, or both made up 1.4% of the participants. While the prevalence in adults was pretty much the same as it was in previous years (1.3%), for children less than age 18 the prevalence in 2008 (2.1%) was greater than it was in 2002 (0.8) and 1997 (0.4%). Sesame allergy was not as prevalent among all surveyed, coming in at 0.1%.
For those with peanut allergies, there are a number of websites that can provide vital information:
PeanutAllergy.com
Here, those with peanut allergies or their parents/relatives can read up on the latest news; learn about the symptoms and basic information, learn which products to stay away from, learn about research on treatments, and more. Also, for those with a sweet tooth, especially for chocolate, this site lets individuals shop for different sweets that are peanut and nut free. The sweets are products of Vermont Nut Free Chocolates.
Food Allergy Initiative
Whatever the food allergy, this site provides detailed information on lifestyle tips, research into allergy treatments and causes, and tools that individuals can use to deal with their allergies. Under the Resources and Downloads tab, visitors can find lists of food companies that serve the needs of food-allergic customers, suggestions of helpful books, links to support groups, and more.
http://www.faiusa.org/?page=peanuts
More and more, peanut allergies and tree nut allergies are being reported in adults and children across the country.
