National Charity Calls For Improved Allergy Services Following Tragic Death, UK

Main Category: Allergy
Article Date: 24 Nov 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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The Anaphylaxis Campaign has called for urgent Government action to tackle the gross lack of allergy services in the UK, following the tragic death of Angus Myers from peanut allergy.

Serious food allergies are on the increase, with an estimated half a million people at risk of anaphylaxis. Allergy services are patchy across the UK with many allergic people never visiting a specialist or given a management plan to cope with their condition and minimise the risk of a life threatening reaction.

Mandy East, from the National Allergy Strategy Group (NASG), commented: "The NASG are committed to improve allergy services across the UK. Despite several reports in recent years highlighting the urgent need for more and improved allergy centres, the Department of Health have yet to put in place any measures, whilst incidence continues to rise and patient waiting lists grow."

The Anaphylaxis Campaign also appealed to anyone who has a known nut allergy, however mild, to visit their GP and obtain adrenaline medication. Allergic reactions are unpredictable and a series of mild reactions can easily be followed by a life-threatening one. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition but can be effectively managed if diagnosed properly and a management plan put in place. For more information visit www.anaphylaxis.org.uk or call our helpline on 01252 542029.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction - the extreme end of the allergic spectrum. Symptoms may include generalised flushing, difficulty in breathing and can result in cardiac arrest and death. Around one million people across the UK are thought to be at risk of food-induced anaphylaxis.

The Anaphylaxis Campaign is a national registered charity that provides information and support to the growing number of people with life-threatening allergies, particularly to foods such as peanut. It also works vigorously to educate child-carers (e.g. schools and pre-schools), the food industry and health professionals. For more information visit www.anaphylaxis.org.uk