This study was conducted by Dr. Sari Taha, Coordinator of the An-Najah Institute for Global Health, in collaboration with Prof. Sa’ed Zyoud from the Department of Clinical and Community Pharmacy. The research reflects the institute’s commitment to advancing academic excellence and addressing pressing public health challenges in Palestine.

The study fills a significant gap in allergy-related research—a field with limited academic contributions in Palestine and the broader region. It highlights key disparities in parental knowledge and practices related to managing food allergies in children. The findings reveal that parents with higher education levels, better incomes, and stronger connections to healthcare institutions exhibit greater awareness and preparedness in addressing food allergies compared to their peers.

The research also underscores the severe risks associated with food allergies in children, including life-threatening situations such as choking or fatal reactions, particularly when meals are consumed outside the home. These challenges pose ongoing concerns for families, amplifying the emotional and psychological toll of managing such conditions. The majority of participants reported elevated stress levels and noted that food allergies significantly impact the well-being of the entire family due to the continuous vigilance required.

The study’s conclusions advocate for the development of targeted health campaigns aimed at educating parents. These campaigns should combine traditional health education with psychological support and practical training to effectively manage food allergy emergencies. Such efforts aim to reduce the psychological burden on families while improving their overall quality of life.

Access the research here: BMC Public Health Article