Jennifer Gerdts
Executive Director, Food Allergy Canada
Dr. Harold Kim
President, Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
For the over 2.6 million Canadians living with food allergies, daily management and ongoing vigilance are required to avoid having potentially life-threatening allergic reactions. Food allergies aren’t a lifestyle choice, but rather a serious medical condition that needs to be viewed as a public health priority in Canada.
Considering that more than 50% of Canadian households are impacted by food allergies, this health issue touches people in all areas of our community, including schools, childcare centres, workplaces, restaurants, and more. While the main responsibility for managing food allergies rests with the individual at risk (or parents in the case of children), community awareness and engagement are essential to support this growing
patient segment.
Considering that more than 50% of Canadian households are impacted by food allergies, this health issue touches people in all areas of our community.
With this in mind, Food Allergy Canada and the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Canada’s leading food allergy-related patient and medical associations, have launched a National Food Allergy Action Plan. The plan provides a framework to guide future policy actions for reducing the impact of food allergies and improving the quality of life for at-risk Canadians with a specific focus in the areas of prevention, management, treatment, and broad-based community and food system support.
Specific elements of the plan call for:
- Greater access to epinephrine auto-injectors
- Broad understanding of food allergies within foodservice and the general public
- Broad-based access to accurate ingredient information and safe food options
- Guidance for early introduction of potentially-allergenic foods
- Investment in research to prevent, treat, and cure food allergies
Each of these goals, once achieved, will directly improve the quality of life for Canadians living with food allergies, which is the ultimate objective. Join these organizations as they engage with government, industry, and the greater community to chart a path forward. Now is the time to act.Visit Food Allergy Canada to learn more and get involved.
