More than half of parents of allergic children are stressed
Toronto, ON, April 7, 2011 – A new Canadian survey reveals that people living with anaphylaxis are worried, stressed and often limit common activities that are perceived as too risky. Parents with severely allergic kids are losing sleep about ordinary activities that other parents may take for granted: sending their kids to school, eating out at restaurants, traveling, and letting their kids attend summer camp. Activities such as allowing an allergic child to attend a birthday party or a sleepover can cause so much concern that some parents choose to avoid those activities entirely.  Bullying is also a primary concern.   The survey was conducted by the Allergy/Asthma Information Association.

Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that can be life threatening. Food is one of the most common causes of anaphylaxis, but insect stings, medicine, or even exercise can also cause a reaction. It has been estimated that more than one million Canadians are at risk of anaphylaxis.

“Having been the parent of an allergic child, it’s not surprising to me that many parents find it challenging to cope with food allergies and anaphylaxis,” said Mary Allen, chief executive officer of the Allergy/Asthma Information Association (AAIA), a Canadian charity dedicated to supporting the allergic community....