Topline
Some children can overcome peanut allergy by consuming peanut protein powder in early childhood, according to a study published Thursday by the Lancet, offering new hope for preventing a potentially life-threatening condition affecting about 1 million U.S. children.
A photo illustration including a jar of peanut butter.
Key Facts
After receiving increasing doses of peanut protein powder for 30 months, 71% of children under 4 in the study could consume the equivalent of 16 peanuts without an allergic reaction, researchers found.
The study indicated that young children have a “window of opportunity” to treat peanut allergy while the immune system remains flexible.
Six months after the therapy ended, allergic reactions were still in remission for 21% of the children.
Key Background
Peanut allergy, which can induce a rapidly developing and possibly deadly reaction, is one of the most common food allergies in U.S. children, and has led some schools to stop serving peanut products. Peanut allergy affects an estimated 0.6% of Americans, and has become more common over time, rising by 21% among children from 2010 to 2017 according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. In 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Palforzia, the first drug to treat peanut allergy among children. However, Palforzia is intended to guard against accidental exposure to peanuts, and does not entirely eliminate the effects of the allergy. An incident of peanut allergy can also be treated with an epinephrine injection.
Tangent
Public figures with peanut allergy include tennis champion Serena Williams, singer Kelly Clarkson, comedian Ray Romano, comedian Bill Hader and Malia Obama, daughter of Barack Obama.
Contra
Up to 20% of people with peanut allergy outgrow the condition naturally, the ACAAI reported.
Further Reading
“Early treatment could tame peanut allergies in small kids” (Associated Press)
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/zacharysmith/2022/01/20/early-childhood-treatment-shows-promise-to-overcome-peanut-allergy-researchers-say/