Clinical Report: Prevalence of Food Allergy Among Preschoolers in Qingdao, China
Overview
A cross-sectional study found a 13.0% prevalence of food allergy (FA) among preschoolers in Qingdao, China. Significant risk factors included maternal FA history and picky eating behavior, while protective factors included gestational age and indoor plant cultivation.
Background
Food allergy is a significant health concern in children, with rising prevalence rates globally. Understanding the prevalence and associated risk factors in specific populations is essential.
Data Highlights
Measure
Value
Prevalence of FA
13.0%
Single clinical manifestation
58.3%
Two or more symptoms
41.7%
Risk factor: Annual income > ¥15,000 CNY
OR 2.812 (1.547-5.111)
Risk factor: Maternal FA history
OR 3.143 (1.505-6.561)
Protective factor: Gestational age ≥ 37 weeks
OR 0.049 (0.006-0.424)
Protective factor: Indoor plant cultivation
OR 0.433 (0.229-0.817)
Key Findings
13.0% of preschool children in Qingdao were diagnosed with food allergy.
No significant differences in FA prevalence were found across gender or age groups.
58.3% of affected children exhibited a single clinical manifestation.
Risk factors for FA included high household income, maternal FA history, and picky eating behavior.
Protective factors included gestational age of 37 weeks or more and indoor plant cultivation.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare providers should consider socioeconomic factors and maternal history when assessing children for food allergies.
Conclusion
The study identifies a significant prevalence of food allergies among preschoolers in Qingdao, with multifactorial risk and protective factors.
