A recent study highlights a significant rise in psychology referrals for children with food allergies, indicating a growing need for mental health support due to anxiety associated with these conditions. Presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting in Boston, the research found that one center experienced over a 50% increase in referrals in 2023 compared to annual figures from 2018 to 2022.
Dr. Andriana La Mantia, the study's lead author, stated, "Our center has devoted significant resources to address the psychosocial support needed by many families who have children with food allergies." She added that their goal was to understand the use of psychological services for anxiety related to food allergies.
The study involved a retrospective chart review of outpatient pediatric psychology referrals between 2013 and 2023 due to food allergies and related conditions. The data included demographic information, medical history concerning food allergies, and the number of psychology appointments attended during this period.
A total of 250 patients participated in the study, comprising 141 males and 109 females with a median age of 9.5 years. Among them, 88% were referred for concerns related to food allergies, with an average of 2.1 allergens per patient. Furthermore, 53% had previously documented anaphylaxis episodes. Food-related anxiety affected 69% of patients, while quality-of-life impairment prompted referrals for another 12%. Notably, 60% of those referred completed at least one appointment, averaging about five follow-up sessions within a year.
Dr. David Stukus, co-author and ACAAI member, emphasized the importance of expanding psychological services: "Food allergy patients, particularly children, often suffer from anxiety related to potential accidental ingestion and anaphylaxis."
The ACAAI is a professional organization dedicated to improving patient care through collaboration among its members. For more information on managing food allergies or finding an allergist, individuals can visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org.
