Cherie Zachary, MD, installed as ACAAI President
Allergist Cherie Zachary, MD, was installed as president of the ACAAI, replacing David Stukus, MD. Dr. Zachary brings experience in leadership and equity initiatives to her role.
Allergist Cherie Zachary, MD, was installed as president of the ACAAI, replacing David Stukus, MD. Dr. Zachary brings experience in leadership and equity initiatives to her role.
Eczema's duration and severity significantly impact a child's likelihood of outgrowing food allergies. Children with longer-lasting, more severe eczema are less likely to overcome food allergies.
New research reveals that social media videos about alpha-gal syndrome and asthma often contain inaccurate or misleading claims, while physician-made videos receive more likes and comments. Allergists can play a crucial role in sharing science-based information to improve public understanding and mitigate health risks.
A long-term study found that more than 70% of toddlers who received peanut patch treatment could tolerate at least three to four peanut kernels after three years. The treatment continued to show a strong safety record, with no cases of anaphylaxis reported.
The Allergists' Foundation has supported six community grant projects addressing various challenges in healthcare, including hereditary angioedema diagnosis, asthma management, food insecurity screening, and female carriers of chronic granulomatous disease. These initiatives aim to enhance patient care, education, advocacy, and research.
A new study found that nearly half of obstetricians refer pregnant patients to allergists only once a year, and about one in four never refer them at all. The most frequently cited barriers are limited knowledge about referral indications and long wait times for appointments.
Research suggests that people with allergic conditions like eczema, asthma, and hay fever are more likely to experience complications after surgery, including infections, scar tissue buildup, and implant rupture. These conditions can lead to increased inflammation and immune system changes, making it harder for the body to heal.
Two new studies highlight the profound impact of hereditary angioedema on young patients' emotional wellbeing and medical experiences. The research emphasizes that managing HAE in young patients requires attention to mental health, family dynamics, and quality-of-care experiences.
Two new studies show that oral immunotherapy and oral food challenges can transform daily life for young patients with food allergies, improving quality of life and reducing anxiety. The treatments have been found to be safe and effective in desensitizing children to common allergens such as peanut, tree nuts, sesame, egg, and milk.
A new study found that COVID-19 vaccination is associated with a significant reduction in infections and allergic complications among children with atopic dermatitis. The researchers analyzed data from over 5,700 vaccinated and unvaccinated pediatric patients and found lower rates of multiple infections and allergic conditions.
A new study published in the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology's annual meeting reveals a significant association between military deployment and an increased risk of developing chronic respiratory conditions. Deployed veterans were found to have a 55% higher risk of asthma compared to non-deployed peers.
A new study found that thunderstorms trigger sharp increases in asthma-related emergency department visits. Researchers analyzed 4,439 asthma-related ED visits and identified 38 thunderstorm days, with a mean of 17.91 admissions on storm days compared to 3.09 on non-storm days.
Researchers explore the psychological impact of chronic illnesses on patients with asthma and allergies, finding that fear, anxiety, and social stigma can greatly interfere with treatment. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology discusses ways clinicians can mitigate these effects and provide better care for patients.
A new study found that patients with asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, or food allergies have a higher risk of developing EoE. Food allergy had the highest risk, with a hazard ratio of 6.31 compared to those without any of these conditions.
A recent study in Chicago reveals a significant increase in sensitization to pollens and molds among patients with nasal allergies. The researchers found that tree pollen, weed pollen, grass pollen, and mold sensitizations all increased post-COVID compared to pre-COVID.
A study found that anxiety related to food allergies increased significantly in children, leading to an average of 2.1 allergens per patient and a 69% incidence of food-related anxiety. Psychology referrals for these patients increased by 50% over four years, with 60% completing at least one appointment.
A survey of 298 parents with children diagnosed with atopic dermatitis found that parents' understanding of the condition and its dietary links significantly influenced their children's diets. The most frequently identified trigger foods were milk, tree nuts/seeds/peanuts, and eggs.
A new study at an allergy clinic in a diverse community found that self-identified non-White patients were less likely to show vaccine hesitancy than the White patient group. Ethnicities included in the study showed Black, Hispanic and Asian ethnicities with lower rates of refusal compared to Whites.
Prolonged exposure to incense smoke can cause headaches, respiratory dysfunction, dermatologic sensitivity, and allergic reactions in individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma. Switching to electric or aromatic vapors, improved ventilation, and limiting burn time may help mitigate these risks.
Two studies reveal that anaphylaxis management remains unclear, with only 14% of respondents confident in using epinephrine. EMS protocols also vary widely, with outdated definitions and inadequate recommendations for treatment.
A new study shows that syphilis patients labeled as penicillin allergic but low risk can safely have their allergy label removed, avoiding treatment failure and negative health consequences. This delabeling helps to improve treatment outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization.
The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) has issued a position paper on the safety of administering live vaccines to patients treated with dupilumab. The review suggests that treatment should not be stopped, but rather, shared decision-making between doctors and patients is recommended to weigh risks and benefits.
The new guidelines offer evidence-based recommendations for diagnosing and managing anaphylaxis and atopic dermatitis in pediatric and adult patients. The guidelines emphasize the importance of patient values and preferences in arriving at optimal recommendations, reflecting advancements in diversity, equity, and inclusion.
A recent study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology examines the effects of climate change on various allergic conditions, including atopic dermatitis, asthma, and seasonal allergies. The research suggests that environmental warming can lead to longer-lasting pollen seasons and increased T2 inflammation.
Dr. Gailen Marshall was installed as president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), succeeding Dr. James Tracy who was elected as president-elect. Dr. Marshall is a renowned allergist and immunologist with extensive experience in clinical practice, research, and academia.
New studies presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Annual Scientific Meeting highlight the dangers of excess mold on individuals with asthma. Effective methods for getting rid of mold and airborne allergens include HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, and UV-based technology.
Researchers have successfully used a specially formulated toothpaste for Oral Mucosal Immunotherapy (OMIT) to desensitize adults with peanut allergies. The study showed that 100% of participants consistently tolerated the highest dose without severe reactions, and 97% adhered to treatment.
A study found that language difficulties lead to underdiagnosis of allergic conditions like asthma and eczema in children who speak a language other than English. A case report highlights the risks of pharmacy translation software interfering with prescription filling, causing delays in securing life-saving medications.
A recent study found that 72% of eczema patients experienced poor mental health symptoms for 1-10 days within the past month. Additionally, 35% reported never discussing their mental health with their allergist and 57% were never asked about it.
Two cases report flaxseed as an allergen causing severe reactions, including facial rashes and contact dermatitis. Flaxseed is increasingly used in baked goods, cereals, and oil paints, highlighting the need for awareness about its potential to trigger allergic reactions.
A new study presents a nationwide survey of children and adults with food allergies, revealing common themes around when their allergy developed and coinciding events. The research suggests that eating too much of an allergenic food or genetics may be contributing factors to adult-onset food allergies.
The Allergist's Foundation awards grants to support innovative projects addressing health disparities in underserved communities. Six grantees presented their work at the ACAAI National Scientific Meeting, focusing on topics such as cannabis education, food allergy management, and asthma-related outcomes.
A new study suggests that gargling with salt water may be an effective remedy to improve respiratory symptoms and reduce hospitalization rates in people with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study found that both low- and high-dose saline regimens were associated with lower hospitalization rates compared to controls.
A recent study assessed ChatGPT's accuracy in identifying common allergy myths. The AI model correctly identified myths as true or false with an overall accuracy rate of 91%, with some myths being more accurate than others.
A survey found that 42% of primary care physicians are unaware of biologic treatments for asthma, and 82% do not get necessary labs to determine treatment options. This lack of knowledge can lead to delayed referrals to asthma specialists and reduced effectiveness in managing symptoms.
A new study presents evidence that children with private insurance are more likely to outgrow food allergies compared to those with public insurance. Milk and egg allergy were the most frequently outgrown allergies in the cohort of 188 children studied, with a mean age at which food was outgrown being 5 years.
A panel of experts has defined clinical remission in asthma treatment, requiring six criteria met over 12 months. The definition aims to set an aspirational goal for prolonged control and optimize medication adherence.
A survey of allergists and immunologists reveals that diagnosing and treating hereditary angioedema can be challenging, particularly for patients in rural areas. Patients living in rural areas are more likely to face barriers to care, including longer travel times to reach medical facilities.
Racial disparities in atopic dermatitis and food allergy affect people of color, with challenges including comfort level with healthcare providers and access to safe foods. Experts recommend 10 solutions to address these disparities, such as increasing diversity in clinical trials and providing culturally appropriate materials.
Two new yardsticks have been published by the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology to guide practitioners on treating eosinophilic esophagitis and managing cough in adults and adolescents. The yardsticks provide practical, evidence-based recommendations for clinical decision-making.
Despite Illinois' strong stock inhaler laws, school administrators cite difficulty obtaining prescriptions and liability concerns as barriers to implementation. A study found that 35% of stakeholders cited prescription issues and liability fears, highlighting the need for enhanced education and verbiage to alleviate these concerns.
A new study presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Annual Scientific Meeting found that most infants with anaphylaxis were treated appropriately with a single dose of epinephrine. The study reviewed charts for 169 patients under 2 years old who presented with anaphylaxis symptoms in various systems.
A study by the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology found that pollen levels are lowest during early morning hours, with lower counts occurring between 4:00 a.m. and noon. This information can help individuals with pollen allergies plan their outdoor activities accordingly.
A new study found that smartphones can harbor allergens such as cat and dog dander, β-D glucans, and endotoxin. Cleaning compounds like chlorhexidine/cetylpyridinium chloride and benzyl benzoate/tannic acid were effective in reducing these allergens.
A new study reveals that only half of food allergic adult patients have immediate access to epinephrine, and 36% believe EAIs can cause life-threatening effects. The top reported reason for not having an EAI is lack of education on their necessity.
A new CRISPR genome editing treatment has shown promising results in alleviating swelling and reducing the frequency of attacks in hereditary angioedema patients. The treatment, NTLA-2002, targets the KLKB1 gene and reduces kallikrein production, a protein responsible for debilitating swelling attacks.
A new study identifies sexual activity as a potential trigger for asthma exacerbations, which can be managed with the guidance of an allergist. The authors suggest that discussing sex with an allergist can help patients avoid triggering flares and improve their quality of life.
A new study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology found that targeted cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) significantly lessens food allergy-related anxiety for both children and parents. The treatment included proximity exposure sessions with the patient, resulting in improved symptoms and quality of life.
A new study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology found that 36% of YouTube videos on hay fever contained misleading information, leading to increased user interaction. Medical associations were the most reliable source of information, with only 32% of TV show/YouTube channel videos classified as useful.
A recent study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology found that longer durations of exclusive breastfeeding are associated with lower odds of current asthma. The study analyzed over 2,000 mother-child pairs and discovered a 'dose-response' effect depending on how long the mother breastfed.