D3.436 - Advancing Equity in Food Allergy Prevention – Insights and Takeaways from CFAAR’s Summit for Advancing Equity in Food Allergy

The prevalence of food allergies (FAs) has risen substantially over the past few decades, totaling over 220 million individuals globally. Beyond their medical impact, FAs place a substantial emotional, social, and economic burden on individuals, families, and caregivers. As FA incidence increases alongside advancements in treatment, it is critical to develop equitable plans, policies, and guidelines to advance equity in FA.

On 6/30/2024, Northwestern’s Center for Food Allergy and Asthma Research hosted the Summit for Advancing Equity in Food Allergy (SAEFA) which featured four discussion panels focusing on daily life, diagnosis, prevention, and daily treatment. Bringing together 35 diverse FA stakeholders, including clinicians, researchers, policymakers, patients, industry representatives, and advocates, panelists shared barriers to progress and proposed solutions to address equity challenges in relation to their specific panel. A live document recording the discussions was projected at the front of the conference room. The barriers and strategic directions presented in this abstract highlight takeaways from the Prevention Panel.

SAEFA panelists identified key barriers and solutions to advancing FA prevention. Given the global shortage of allergists—who make up less than 1% of physicians and play a crucial role in both allergy diagnosis and early allergen introduction—panelists emphasized the need for innovative solutions. Expanding the use of mobile clinics and telemedicine was proposed as a strategy to improve access to care and enhance allergy prevention education. The identified barriers were categorized into four key themes: (1) Affordability – High costs for diagnostic testing and safe food options, (2) Accessibility – Limited availability of allergists, (3) Education – Need for improved public awareness and provider training on FA prevention, (4) Medical Mistrust – Attributed to past healthcare experiences and misinformation.

Addressing food allergy inequities requires multi-level interventions, including expanding access to allergists, increasing awareness of evidence-based prevention strategies, and ensuring affordability of safe foods and treatments. Policy changes, community-based initiatives, and culturally competent care are essential to advancing equity in food allergy prevention. The insights from this summit provide a foundation for future research and policy aimed at reducing disparities and improving health outcomes.