A new article by a number of local allergy specialists was recently published in the New Zealand Medical Journal. It summarises the epidemiological data on food allergy and discusses the implications for New Zealand. The article’s authors maintain the current lack of reliable food allergy prevalence data in New Zealand means that many food allergy sufferers are missing out on hospital services. In addition, this lack of data has a significant effect on the ability to build a case to lobby Pharmac to fund adrenaline auto-injectors.

The authors pointed out that better epidemiological data may assist health boards in prioritising the need for allergy and immunology services and ensure robust coordination and continuity of care across primary, secondary and tertiary care services. Tertiary hospital-based multidisciplinary teams would ideally include specialist allergists, nurses, dietitians, and facilities for food challenges and immunotherapy.

The issues also extend to schools and preschools, where it has been left to each individual organisation to devise their own approach to dealing with children with food allergies.  The ad hoc approach may place some students at increased risk of reactions while attending school.

Reference: Crooks et al. “The changing epidemiology of food allergy — implications for New Zealand”, The New Zealand Medical Journal, 4 April 2008, Vol 121 No 1271.