New ABC feature on allergies

The Australian Broadcasting Commission (ABC) has published a special feature on their website to provide information about allergies for consumers. The feature is not specific to food allergies, but covers topics such as the difference between allergy and intolerance, potential reasons for the increasing prevalence of allergies, whether avoiding certain foods can prevent the development of allergies, and the prognosis for those who have allergies, with regard to whether allergy can be cured or outgrown.

At the end of each of the six topics, a 'bottom line' summary of the information is provided. These include the following statements:

• If you suspect you have an allergy then you need to get a referral to an allergy specialist, who can make an accurate diagnosis.
• While the incidence of allergies is increasing in Australia, death from life-threatening cases is rare.
• Avoiding certain foods doesn't appear to prevent food allergy, if your child has an allergic reaction; it was going to happen and it's not your fault.
• You can outgrow an allergy – although this can take years and is often hard to predict. You should only allow qualified professionals to test to see if you're no longer allergic to certain substances.
• You can't cure allergies so you need to manage your condition and avoid your triggers. Immunotherapy can help to 'switch off' some allergies.

View the feature on allergies on the ABC website  or by contact the Allergen Bureau.