CPS Misc

Question 1

Prevalence of food allergy in Canada, by self report?

Answer 1

7%

Question 2

Who is an infant at high risk for developing an allergy?

Answer 2

• Infant with first degree relative (at least one parent or sibling) with an allergic condition
• Allergic conditions include: atopic dermatitis, food allergy, asthma or allergic rhinitis

Question 3

Should pregnant women restrict diet for allergy prevention?

Answer 3

Evidence to support maternal dietary restrictions during pregnancy is contradictory and insufficient
-Recent cochrane found little evidence that avoiding milk, egg or other potential allergens reduced risk of atopic eczema or asthma

Question 4

What are the recommendations from Health Canada, CPS about feeding in first 6 months?

Answer 4

• Exclusive breastfeeding for first six months of life
• Unknown if BF will prevent allergy
• Total duration of BF may be more protective than exclusive for 6 months

Question 5

What are the recommendations from Health Canada, CPS about choice of formula?

Answer 5

Breastfeeding over formula feeding

-Choose hydrolyzed cows milk formula if necessary

Question 6

What are the recommendations regarding delays of introductions of certain foods?

Answer 6

• Do not delay the introduction of any specific food beyond six months of age
• Later introduction of peanut, fish, egg does not prevent allergy

Question 7

Does early introduction of specific food prevent allergies?

Answer 7

• More research is needed

- Inducing tolerance of solid foods at 4-6 months is under investiate

Question 8

When introducing new foods, how frequently should they be given?

Answer 8

-Regular ingestion of newly introduced food (several times per week and soft mashed consistency to prevent choking) is important to maintain tolerance