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| |  Peanut And Tree Nut Allergy Affects Three Million Americans MILWAUKEE, WI -- April 12, 1999 -- Researchers from New York, Virginia and Arkansas report in this month’s issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology that peanut and/or tree nut (such as walnut, almond and cashew) allergy affects about three million Americans or 1.1 percent of the population. The prevalence of this allergy in the general population was unknown until now, despite the seriousness and recent attention given to peanut and tree nut allergy with controversy over banning peanuts from schools and airplanes. In addition, the study suggests many affected are not seeking an evaluation by a physician and many do not have epinephrine available for emergency use. To measure the prevalence of peanut and tree nut allergy, the research team conducted a nation-wide, cross-sectional, random digit dial telephone survey using a standardised questionnaire. A total of 4,374 households participated, resulting in data from 12,032 people. Peanut or tree nut allergy was reported by 164 individuals. Researchers excluded those that did not meet the study's criteria, which required a typical food allergy reaction to have occurred within one hour of consumption (hives, angioedema, wheezing, throat tightness, vomiting or diarrhea). The remaining 118 subjects reported having allergic reactions to at least one organ system (skin, respiratory or gastrointestinal systems) and 45 percent of these subjects reported having more than five reactions in their lifetime. Of the 118 respondents, only 53 percent saw a physician for the condition and only seven percent had self-injectable epinephrine available at the time of the interview. Researchers note two unique findings brought forth by this study. Previous reports indicate that between 20 and 34 percent of patients are allergic to both peanuts and tree nuts. However, only four adults (.02 percent) reported being allergic to both peanuts and tree nuts in this study, suggesting that allergy to both peanuts and tree nuts may not be as common in the general population as compared to rates previously reported by allergic patients' physicians. Secondly, these allergies were more common in adults than in children, despite the fact that the general prevalence of food allergy is greater in children. Considering that peanut and tree nut allergies are usually not outgrown, there may be a greater representation among adults because that population has accumulated affected individuals. "This study is a milestone in the understanding of food allergy," said Anne Munoz-Furlong, founder of The Food Allergy Network. "For years, reporters and others have wondered how many people are affected by these potentially life-threatening food allergies. Many believed it was only a small portion of the population that was affected, and therefore no one should care. “This study indicates that peanut and tree nut allergy involves a significant number of people. Peanut and tree nuts are the leading cause of severe or fatal food-allergic reactions." There is no cure for food allergy. Avoidance of the food is critical. However, reactions to these foods commonly occur when the individual is away from home. In almost all cases, the individual thought they were eating a safe food. "Anyone who serves food to others should be aware of the potential seriousness of food-allergic reactions and make every effort to disclose the ingredients in foods they serve," Munoz-Furlong added. Quick administration of epinephrine, the medication of choice for managing an anaphylactic, or severe, reaction is critical. It is worrisome that the study shows a significant number of patients did not carry epinephrine, even though 81 percent experienced breathing problems or generalised reactions. "Accidents are never planned. Individuals with an allergy to peanuts or tree nuts who have been prescribed epinephrine, available as EpiPen(R) or AnaKit(R), should be sure to carry it with them at all times. They should report any allergic reactions to their doctor for follow-up." The Food Allergy Network (FAN) is a national non-profit organisation whose mission is to increase public awareness about food allergy and anaphylaxis, provide education and advance research.
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