Read our latest update on our advocacy efforts around improving access to oral immunotherapy (OIT). Plus, discover how our advocacy is helping to shape the accommodation of food allergy in long-term care (LTC) homes. Read about a new update in EoE medication for children, and our research reminder about a study that shows a higher risk of peanut- and unknown nut-related anaphylaxis during Halloween – be sure to follow our Halloween tips and tricks to have a safe and fun holiday!
Advocacy in action: Our work in increasing access to oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT)
Earlier this year, we asked for your insight in OIT to give us a better understanding of the landscape across Canada to inform our advocacy efforts.
Your input confirmed the following:
- Access to OIT is challenging across the country
- Other than food costs, most people indicate the cost of OIT is covered by provincial health plans except for Alberta and Ontario
- For those who are currently in treatment or have completed treatment, there is a high level of satisfaction with OIT, regardless of the age of the child
- There is a lack of treatment options for impacted adults
- In Ontario, 50% of people who are currently in treatment indicated that their allergist has paused treatment citing issues related to provincial billing
Because there is a pressing issue currently in Ontario, we have focused our efforts for access in that province. Last month, we had important discussions with the Ontario Ministry of Health and the Premier’s office, and they have shown openness to continuing the conversation and working towards solutions for better access to treatment.
Thank you to those of you who helped to advance our efforts, whether through direct advocacy by writing your MPP, or by encouraging others to get involved. Your support has been crucial in bringing this issue to the forefront and amplifying our collective voice.
As we move forward on this issue across Canada, we will keep you updated on our progress.
Advocacy in action: Food allergy and long-term care homes
In September 2023, we participated in a consultation led by Health Canada to inform the development of a Safe Long-Term Care Act. The aim of the consultation was to collect feedback from Canadians and organizations on the changes they would like to see in the long-term care sector (LTC). We submitted our feedback regarding the need to accommodate food allergy in long-term care homes.
Health Canada recently published their findings in a report, “Safe Long Term Care Act engagement: What we heard report”, which highlights the key recommendations from the various stakeholders, including Food Allergy Canada.
From our recommendations, Health Canada acknowledged food allergy and celiac disease as safety concerns for LTC residents and the need to address these dietary issues to ensure they have access to safe and nutritious food options.
For next steps, the report notes, “The perspectives are being taken into consideration as we work to table the legislation by the end of 2024. We remain committed to ongoing collaboration and discussions with all partners as we work to improve LTC in Canada, so all people in Canada may have access to high quality and safe care no matter where they live.”.
We’ll continue to follow the progress on this legislation and work with the government to ensure accommodations for residents with food allergy are considered a priority.
Research: Medication approved for treatment of EoE in children
The medication DUPIXENT® (dupilumab injection) has been approved in Canada for the treatment of EoE in children aged 1 year and older. This approval expands the initial Health Canada Notice of Compliance for EoE in 2023 for patients aged 12 years and old.
Learn more about EoE
Learn more about EoE, including how it is diagnosed, signs and symptoms, treatments, and how to manage this condition. Plus, access resources like webinars and info sheets.
Research reminder: Higher risk of peanut- and unknown nut-related anaphylaxis during Halloween and Easter
A 2020 Canadian study finds a significant increase in cases of peanut and unknown nut anaphylaxis among children during Halloween and Easter. For this study, cases of anaphylaxis during six holidays (Halloween, Easter, Christmas, Diwali, Chinese New Year and Eid al-Adha) were reviewed in comparison to other days of the year.
For peanut-related anaphylaxis, there was an 85% increase in average daily cases at Halloween and a 60% increase at Easter. For these two holidays, a 70% increase was noted for anaphylaxis caused by unknown nuts (instances when it was unclear if the trigger was peanut or tree nuts).
The study notes that the difference in anaphylaxis incidence may have been due to the social setting of the holiday. At Halloween and Easter, children often receive candies/treats from people who may not be aware of their food allergies, in contrast to Christmas celebrations among family and friends who are more vigilant about allergen exposure.
Another factor may be product labelling, as “snack” sizes of candies/treats are exempt from the requirement to list ingredients, including allergen information. This research points to the importance of anaphylaxis education and the need to follow safety practices like label reading.
To help you and your family have a great Halloween, check out our tips below.
Tags: advocacy, Dupixent, Halloween, mythbuster, Oral Immunotherapy, Research