An online, peer-mentored food allergy education program improves children’s and parents’ confidence

Abstract

Background Children with food allergy, and their families experience substantial burdens because of efforts necessary to minimize the risk of anaphylaxis. To this end, peer-to-peer education is paramount. Food Allergy Canada offers an online, peer-to-peer mentoring program. However, the impact of this program has not previously been formally evaluated. Objective To determine if Allergy Pals, an online, peer-to-peer mentoring program, for children aged 7–11 years, increased child and parental food allergy competency, and confidence. Our secondary aim was to qualitatively describe the experiences of the program. Methods From May 2020-May 2021, children and their parents were invited to participate in an online, anonymous survey about Allergy Pals, at pre-program, and post-program. Primary outcomes, which were described and compared using chi2 or t-tests, as appropriate for the respective variables, included food allergy competence (epinephrine carriage, signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis) and food allergy confidence (e.g. comfort asking other for food allergy-related support). Secondary outcomes included child and parent perceptions of the program, which were analysed thematically. Results Overall, 17 children completed the pre-program, and 11 completed the post-program survey. Corresponding numbers for parents were 25 and 23. Food allergy competence was high pre-program, and remained so post-program. Food allergy confidence improved from pre-program to post-program. E.g. Children tended to feel less left out (5/12, 41.7%; 3/10; 30.0%, respectively), a finding that was reflected also in parents’ scores. Themes identified for child and parent perceptions further supported improved food allergy confidence. Conclusion Although food allergy competence was high pre-program, Allergy Pals improved food allergy confidence.

The mental health burden of food allergies: Insights from patients and their caregivers from the Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) Patient Registry

“…Patients and caregivers should be provided with adequate information to manage severe food-allergic reactions (including proper use of epinephrine autoinjectors and availability of emergency medical services) and potential mental health concerns. 1 , 10 In addition, empowering parents/caregivers and building self-efficacy through education and support groups may decrease fear around food allergies, 8 , 19 , 20 , 21 although levels of empowerment may differ between parents/caregivers. 22 For children with food allergies, counseling and discussions with parents/caregivers and school officials could help to alleviate concerns of bullying and social isolation at school.…”