WIP 154 - Evaluation of Perceptions of Early Peanut Introduction Among Parents

Poster Number: WIP 154
Publication Number: WIP 154.2621

Background: Peanut allergy is among the most common food allergies in children, affecting approximately 25% of those with a food allergy. It is often a chronic and lifelong condition. Only about 20% of children outgrow their peanut allergy. The Learning Early About Peanut Allergy trial enrolled and stratified 640 high-risk infants into 2 groups - peanut exposure and avoidance. Infants who ate peanuts early and regularly had a greater than 80% reduced risk of developing peanut allergy. New guidelines were developed recommending the introduction of peanut products between age 4 and 6 months. Only 13.3% of caregivers, however, are aware of these guidelines. More research is warranted regarding barriers to early peanut introduction, especially across diverse communities.

Objective: The primary objective of the study is to evaluate parental beliefs and attitudes on introducing peanut products to their children during the solid food introduction period. A secondary objective is assessing rates of food insecurity among families in the greater Atlanta area as a potential barrier to early peanut introduction.

Design/Methods: The present study has been approved by the Emory IRB. The study interaction consists of a cross-sectional survey that is being administered to 200 parents of children between age 0 and 5 years. Survey respondents are recruited at two Grady Health pediatric clinics. Both clinics serve economically disadvantaged populations and one of them serves predominantly Spanish-speaking families. Bilingual study personnel verbally administer the survey to parents. Data points involve the child’s demographic information, past medical history, family history, parental beliefs, the family’s plan for introducing peanut products, and food insecurity. Data collection began in October 2023 and will be completed by the new year. Descriptive statistics will be utilized to analyze the data. The results will be cited in an upcoming grant proposal for the funding of infant-friendly peanut products to distribute at well child visits as part of an educational campaign.