Highlights
- Over 50% of individuals fall prey to food allergies after the age of 17
- Hispanic, Asian people were found to be more susceptible
- Food allergies are often thought to be associated with childhood
Experts from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology have revealed that over 50% of individuals fall prey to food allergies after the age of 17. Hispanic, Asian and people of the African origin were found to be more susceptible to developing food allergies as compared to their white counterparts, especially in case of peanut and seafood allergies. It was noted that close to 35% of seafood allergies do not surface until a person attains adulthood. Tree nut and sesame allergies were found to be on the rise in kids with peanut allergy becoming more common in children in the past seven years.
Food allergies are often thought to be associated with childhood, however experts note adults to be equally susceptible to developing food allergies and therefore should be encouraged to get tested in case of noticing any food intolerance. It is recommended for a person to go see a certified allergist in case of chances of any food allergies.
"A food allergy is defined as an adverse health effect arising from a specific immune response that occurs on exposure to a given food. The main target organs can be airways, skin, digestive tract or even cardiovascular organs," notes Dr. Shubnum Singh, Senior Consultant - Allergy Clinic, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Saket.
Food allergy must be differentiated from food intolerance, the former involves the immune system and its reaction against a food or a certain enzyme present in it. Food intolerance is generally not that severe and may restrict to digestive issues.