Sharon Wong’s son developed severe food allergies at a young age, triggering an episode of anaphylaxis that was recognized by a new pediatrician, ultimately saving his life. Today, 6 million American children live with food allergies, and young Asian Americans, including Wong’s son, have a higher likelihood of developing them compared to the general population. A recent Stanford University study of California pediatric records found that Filipino, Vietnamese, and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander children are particularly vulnerable to food allergies.
The rise in food allergies among all American children, including Asian Americans, cannot be solely explained by genetics. Factors such as environmental and dietary changes play a significant role in the prevalence of allergies. The lack of data on food allergy rates within Asian American subgroups makes it challenging to understand the root causes of this issue. Cultural factors also impact how food allergies are managed within Asian American families, as traditional dishes may contain allergens that are dangerous for those with allergies.
Families like Sharon Wong’s are advocating for change by educating relatives and the community about food allergies and providing allergen-safe alternatives to traditional recipes. Others, like Ina K. Chung, are challenging stereotypes about Asian cuisine and food safety, while promoting awareness and self-advocacy among children with allergies. New treatments, such as oral immunotherapy and skin patches, provide hope for managing food allergies, but education and early diagnosis remain crucial.
Overall, the study of food allergies in Asian American children sheds light on the complexities of this issue and the need for targeted research, education, and advocacy to address the growing rates of allergies within this community.
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