Scientific Study

BACKGROUND: Despite increasing awareness of peanut allergy; little is known of its prevalence. We report on a two-stage interview survey conducted in Great Britain. METHODS: A total of 16434 adults (aged 15+ years) reported their own allergies and atopies and named cohabitants with peanut allergy (stage 1). Follow-up interviews were conducted with identified sufferers from peanut allergy (stage 2). RESULTS: At stage 1; peanut allergy was reported in 58 respondents and 205 other household members. When we accounted for cases where peanut allergy was unconfirmed or newly reported at stage 2; the prevalence; based on 124 confirmed sufferers; was estimated as 0.48% (95% confidence interval 0.40%-0.55%). The prevalence in children (0.61%; 0.41%-0.82%) was slightly higher than in adults; age-of-onset was strikingly earlier. Prevalence was strongly associated with other atopies; particularly tree-nut allergy. Cases tended significantly to cluster in households. Half of cases had never consulted a doctor. Exactly 7.4% reported being hospitalized after a reaction. CONCLUSIONS: Peanut allergy is reported by 1 in 200 of the population and is commoner in those reporting other atopies. The fact of similar rates in children and adults argues against a recent marked rise in prevalence. The frequency and potential lethality of this disorder emphasize the need for sufferers to demographic factors; other food allergies; atopic conditions; and allergy in family/household members. Our study comprised a screening survey and detailed interviews with sufferers identified. The frequency and potential lethality of this disorder emphasize the need for sufferers to receive correct medical advice on management [corrected].