Abstract
BackgroundFood allergy is a growing global health concern, with limited studies conducted in developing countries. High-risk behavior regarding allergies is common among young adults, making them prone to severe allergic reactions. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of food allergies among Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU) students and to determine the rate of high-risk behaviors in this group.MethodsAn online survey was conducted among IAU students enrolled between the academic years of 2008 and 2018. The survey addressed food allergies with respect to age of onset, allergy testing, self-injectable epinephrine (SIE) prescription, associated allergic conditions, and attitude and behavior of university students regarding food avoidance and epinephrine use.ResultsIn total, 5497 completed surveys were analyzed; 526 participants were clinically diagnosed with allergies to at least one food item. A SIE device was prescribed for only 129 (24.5%) of the diagnosed individuals, of which only 4.7% carried the device at all times. Thirty-nine individuals (30.2%) reported that they and their family members know the proper epinephrine device technique. Strict avoidance of food allergens was reported by 30.2% of the individuals. Associated allergic conditions were observed in 69.3% of the clinically diagnosed individuals.ConclusionFood allergies are prevalent among IAU students, with under-prescription of SIE devices. A high rate of high-risk behaviors with respect to food avoidance and carrying SIE was noted. Interventional strategies are needed to mitigate the risk of severe reactions among these university students.
Highlights
Food allergy is a growing global health concern, with limited studies conducted in developing countries
A total of 63 deaths due to anaphylaxis secondary to food were reported; 18 (28.5%) of these patients were between the ages of 18 and 25 years, and half of these deaths occurred in university or school settings [8, 9]. These findings indicate that severe or life-threatening allergic reactions to food are more frequently observed in older adolescents and young adult patients
The 553 participants identified as non-Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU) students were excluded
Summary
Food allergy is a growing global health concern, with limited studies conducted in developing countries. High-risk behavior regarding allergies is common among young adults, making them prone to severe allergic reactions. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of food allergies among Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU) students and to determine the rate of high-risk behaviors in this group. A few studies have been conducted to evaluate FA in Saudi Arabia. FA among university students presents a uniquely challenging situation, since many young adults become independent and unsupervised during these years. They are responsible for their own health, including deciding which foods to eat and whether to take or carry medications.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
