Skip to main content

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) released a report called Childhood Allergies in America. The study showed that allergy rates among children have been going up from 2010 to 2016.

The study looked at about 9.6 million U.S. with health insurance, ages 18 and younger. It found that 18 percent of these children have allergies. They looked at:

HoA_Childhood_allergies_snapshot2

The study found that:

  • The number of children “at risk” for a severe reaction increased 104 percent
  • Emergency room visits due to anaphylaxis went up 150 percent
  • Almost half of severe reactions were from foods
  • Stuffy, runny nose and skin allergies are the two most common allergies in children
  • Allergy rates drop as children get older

BCBSA sent out a press release on March 13, 2018, highlighting the report. Kenneth Mendez, president and CEO of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America talked about the report in the press release.

“As the rate of food allergies rises, this study highlights the increased need for awareness and education to help parents and caregivers recognize and properly treat anaphylaxis,” said Mendez. “Patients are more likely to use their medicines if cost is not an issue. Thankfully, with new generics, we again have more options for epinephrine. And with new innovative treatments on the horizon, there will be options to reduce the risk of anaphylaxis.”

HoA_Childhood_allergies_snapshot_1

BCBSA hopes the study will help parents see the need to be prepared for a severe reaction at all times. The best way to be prepared is to read labels to avoid the food your child is allergic to and carry epinephrine auto-injectors at all times.

This report is part of BCBSA’s The Health of America Report® series. Read the full report at bcbs.com/healthofamerica.



Childhood_Allergies_InfographicClick for larger image

It is important to stay up-to-date on news about asthma and allergies. By joining our community and following our blog, you will receive ongoing information about managing your health. Our community also provides an opportunity to connect with other people who manage asthma and allergies.

JOIN NOW

Attachments

Images (3)
  • HoA_Childhood_allergies_snapshot2
  • HoA_Childhood_allergies_snapshot_1
  • Childhood_Allergies_Infographic

Add Comment

Comments (2)

Newest · Oldest · Popular

The main triggers for my 6 year old son and I are pet dander from cats, dogs, rabbits. By living in a dander-free home, his environmental allergies and eczema are much more under control with no medication. I also do a lot to keep the indoor air quality good-- weekly washing of sheets in hot water, mattresses and pillows in zippered cases, hepa air purifier in room. 

When I was young, I did not take my pet allergies seriously and they developed into a serious problem. So I think it should be listed on the poster as a major trigger too.

S
pollen , dust mites and molds everywhere in the house from bathrooms,
kitchen,etc creates havoc to the immune systems.

On Wed, Mar 14, 2018 at 4:22 PM, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America <
support@aafa.org> wrote:
cherry
×
×
×
Link copied to your clipboard.
×