09 Mar Many Summer Camps Need More Training On Food Allergy Treatment

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Margaret T. Redmond, MD
Nationwide Children’s Hospital
Columbus, Ohio 

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?

Response: Food allergies are becoming more prevalent and can cause a life threatening reaction if not managed correctly. Much of the previous focus has been on food allergy in the school setting and little was known about the camp setting.

Analysis of survey data from camp directors, medical personnel and staff reveal that there are deficiencies of training and policy at camps that could place food allergic campers at increased risk of reaction. A prospective registry of epinephrine administration from 51 camps revealed an increased rate of epinephrine administration compared to school data.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response: Summer camp is an invaluable opportunity for children and we believe that food allergies should not limit a child’s ability to participate. However, we would recommend that families of food allergic children reach out the camps ahead of time to discuss policies and comfort with food allergies.

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?

Response: It will be important to measure the ability of targeted educational interventions to improve knowledge about reaction prevention and treatment.

Mylan provided funding for this study but did not have any influence in study design or interpretation of results.

MedicalResearch.com: Thank you for your contribution to the MedicalResearch.com community.

Citation:

Redmond M, Pistiner M, Scherzer R, Twarog F, Stukus D, and Lee J. Understanding Anaphylaxis in Camps: A Study Measuring Demographics, Knowledge, and Incidence of Allergic Reactions. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Feburary 2017 Volume 139, Issue 2, Supplement, p1A-4A, AB1-AB394.

Note: Content is Not intended as medical advice. Please consult your health care provider regarding your specific medical condition and questions.

More Medical Research Interviews on MedicalResearch.com

Last Updated on March 9, 2017 by Marie Benz MD FAAD