Families of south Asian heritage and food allergy: A missed opportunity for health visitors

Abstract

The incidence of food allergy in children of south Asian heritage in the UK is increasing, but little is known about families' understanding or help-seeking. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of mothers from the south Asian community with regard to recognising and seeking help for their child's food allergy. The study method comprised semi-structured interviews with 10 mothers with a child under 5 years with known or suspected food allergy. Interviews were audio-recorded, translated, transcribed and thematically analysed. The study found that there was uncertainty about the cause of the child's symptoms and delays in seeking medical advice. Few parents had talked to health visitors about allergy, although recognised their preventive role. In conclusion, infants from south Asian backgrounds with food allergies face inequalities in health and access to specialist services, and health visitors are missing opportunities to intervene early and promote the delivery of evidence-based care.