Food Allergy Awareness Week runs from May 11-17

May 11-17 has been designated as Food Allergy Awareness Week nationwide, and May 11 is the first international Food Allergy Awareness Day.

Life-threatening food allergies afflict some 6 million to 7 million Americans.

The occurrence of food allergy among children is growing at an alarming rate — up to 5 percent of all children have a diagnosed food allergy.

These allergies — mainly to peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, fish, shellfish and wheat — can result in anaphylaxis, a multi-systemic, autoimmune system response including hives; wheezing; vomiting; swelling of lips, tongue and throat; drop in blood pressure; unconsciousness and death.

Food allergy-induced anaphylaxis is responsible for roughly 30,000 emergency room visits and between 150-250 fatalities annually.

There is no cure for food allergy. Experimental immunotherapy, still a few years away, may lessen the severity of a reaction, but not for those diagnosed with both asthma or multiple food allergies.

Epinephrine, adrenaline available in an auto-injector (Epi-pen) provides temporary relief of symptoms when administered at the onset of symptoms.

Strict avoidance and constant label reading, in addition to carrying the epinephrine, is crucial for all food-allergic individuals.

Our New Jersey Legislature and Gov. James McGreevey have recognized how serious immediate medical attention is for treating anaphylaxis.

The Epinephrine bill was signed into law last December allowing all New Jersey EMTs to carry and administer epinephrine, and there is currently new legislation to allow older school children to carry and self-administer (with physician consent) their own Epi-pens.

And on the national level, the Food and Drug Administration is considering more stringent labeling practices that will require all manufacturers to clearly identify the presence or contamination of known allergens on ingredient statements (right now it is optional).

As a parent of a child with a life-threatening food allergy, a regional support group facilitator and advocate of children with severe food allergy, I see firsthand the need for public awareness, education and understanding.

Researchers indicate the number of children with food allergies will continue to grow.

Our communities, schools and caregivers must be trained how to avoid allergens, as well as how to recognize and treat anaphylactic emergencies before a tragedy occurs.

Virginia Chretien Smith

Middletown