| Abstract [eng] |
Food allergy is recognized as a growing health problem worldwide, and like other atopic diseases, it is on the increase. The number of foods, that may cause adverse reactions, is increasing, as well as the number of severe allergic reactions; still there is a lack of reliable information that could define extent of this problem. The aim of our study was to determine the prevalence and pattern of adverse reactions to food and food allergy among primary schoolchildren and adult inhabitants in Vilnius city (Lithuania) and to assess attitude of schools administration towards food allergy. By this study, for the first time in Lithuania, we estimated the prevalence of adverse reactions to food and food allergy among children and adults. The structure of food allergies was determined, food products that cause adverse reactions were assessed, symptoms, that are followed by these reactions were analysed, and role of school staff in management of food allergy and their attitude towards this issue was assessed. We followed the consolidated methodology of EuroPrevall – an EU-funded multidisciplinary integrated research project, where Vilnius University was a partner. We organized epidemiological prevalence and case-control studies, with more than 8000 participants in total. As an outcome, Lithuania (with its neighbour country Poland) represents the Eastern European region with its cultural and social aspects, associated with nutritional habits, which do influence the epidemiological situation of food allergies in the country, herewith allowing to make comparisons in the international context. Our data can also serve to a medical practice, when diagnosing and treating this disease. |
