#77 - Food Allergy and Its Impact on the Black Community

How is the black community impacted by food allergies?

Dr. Carla Davis joins Dr. G and Kortney to discuss the impact of social determinants of health on food allergy outcomes within the Black community. Dr. Davis highlights historical factors like redlining and insurance disparities that exacerbate health disparities, resulting in higher prevalence rates of food allergies and multiple allergies among Black patients. These disparities often lead to increased emergency room visits and barriers to accessing allergen-free foods, compounded by socioeconomic challenges and food insecurity.

Dr. Davis also underscores how cultural differences significantly influence the management of food allergies within families, particularly during gatherings, and emphasizes the crucial role of media representation in raising awareness and promoting acceptance.

We discuss the critical need for increased Black representation in research trials, recognizing the challenges posed by longstanding mistrust in the medical community among Black patients.

Key Points Covered in This Episode:

• Health Disparities: Social factors significantly impact food allergy outcomes in the Black community.
• Limited Healthcare Access: Redlining and insurance disparities restrict healthcare access, worsening health outcomes.
• Food Insecurity: Challenges in accessing allergen-free foods are heightened by food insecurities and food deserts.
• Cultural Factors in Food Allergy Management: Cultural influences play a crucial role in managing food allergies within families.
• Resources for Food Allergies: Essential support from food banks and allergy organizations for managing allergies and food insecurity.
• Communication Tips for Patients: Practical advice for effective communication and advocacy with healthcare providers.
• Historical Mistrust of the Medical Community: Historical discrimination contributes to mistrust in healthcare, affecting access and outcomes.

Helpful Resources

• Health Disparities in Allergy, Asthma and Immunologic Diseases (New Webinar July 16, 2024): https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/webinars-updates/health-disparities-diseases/
• Black People Like Me Virtual Conference Series 2024: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/trusted-messengers-project/black-people-like-me-2024/
• Food Allergy Resources: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/allergies/ 
• School Plans for Students with Food Allergies: https://allergyasthmanetwork.org/news/school-plans-students-food-allergies/

Food Equality Initiative - Food Allergy Friendly Food Bank Resource: https://www.foodequalityinitiative.org/