Millions worldwide live with peanut allergies. A recent European study highlights a potential treatment to reduce severe reactions from accidental exposure.
For peanut allergy sufferers, even accidental ingestion of one peanut can be frightening. In Europe alone, 17 million people are affected, with cases doubling between 2005 and 2015. Though the root cause remains unclear, relief may be coming soon. A study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health on July 20, 2020, suggests a breakthrough.
The immune system mistakenly flags peanuts as harmful, prompting an overreaction and release of chemicals like histamine to fight the perceived threat.
Reactions range from mild to severe. In extreme cases, anaphylaxis causes breathing and swallowing difficulties, tongue and lip swelling, and loss of consciousness. Untreated, it can lead to anaphylactic shock and death.
The trial included 175 children and teens aged 4 to 17 with peanut allergies, split into treatment and placebo groups. Over nine months, the treatment group gradually consumed increasing peanut protein doses. Results showed 58% could tolerate three or four peanuts, versus just 2% in the placebo group.
The researchers issued a clear warning: This approach mitigates risks from accidental exposure only, not enabling regular peanut consumption.
Building on this, a 2019 University of British Columbia study tested immunotherapy on young children to foster peanut tolerance.
