Impact of Food Allergies on Quality of Life in Pediatric Patients: A Comparative Study
In recent years, food allergies (FAs) have become a significant concern among pediatric populations, affecting not just their physical well-being but also their emotional and psychological quality of life. The transition from childhood to adolescence marks a critical period, and it is essential to understand how the impacts of food allergies evolve with age. A recent study presented at a Food Allergy Symposium (FAS) explored these differences, highlighting the contrasting experiences of children and adolescents dealing with food allergies.
The study, which was conducted in September 2018 and September 2019, involved the recruitment of pediatric patients with confirmed food allergies during the symposium. Participants, along with their parents, were encouraged to fill out the Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire (FAQLQ), a validated tool designed to evaluate the daily challenges faced by individuals with food allergies. Additionally, the Food Allergy Independent Measure (FAIM) was utilized to assess concerns regarding accidental food exposure and the severity of their condition. In both measures, higher scores indicated a worse quality of life.
The data revealed significant findings. A total of 74 surveys were completed, with 82% of respondents being children and 18% adolescents. Notably, adolescents reported a higher total FAQLQ score, indicating a greater perceived impact of food allergies on their lives (median score of 5.2 for adolescents versus 4.2 for children; p = 0.045). Conversely, adolescents exhibited a lower FAIM score, suggesting they had fewer immediate concerns about accidental exposure (median score of 2.2 for adolescents compared to 2.8 for children; p = 0.037). Additionally, a higher proportion of adolescents reported having experienced anaphylaxis (91.7% against 51.8% for children; p = 0.011), highlighting an increase in the severity of their experiences with food allergies.
Importantly, the study found that a majority of adolescents felt reassured by carrying epinephrine. This was indicated by 81.8% of adolescents compared to only 45.8% of children feeling the same way (p = 0.046). These trends may reflect the adolescents’ growing sense of autonomy and responsibility in managing their health conditions.
This research underscores the importance of continued community education and support for pediatric patients with food allergies. Integrated educational initiatives like the FAS serve as vital platforms for encouraging open discussions about quality of life, while fostering a supportive environment for families navigating the challenges posed by food allergies. As food allergies remain a pressing issue, greater awareness and understanding can contribute significantly to improving the overall quality of life for affected individuals.
Keywords:
Food allergy, Pediatrics, Quality of life
