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Papers by bernie clayton

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescent undiagnosed-wheeze; an unrecognised state associated with significant morbidity, tobacco and paracetamol use

European Respiratory Journal, 2011

Background: Adolescent undiagnosed-wheeze is poorly understood. Aims: We characterised adolescent... more Background: Adolescent undiagnosed-wheeze is poorly understood. Aims: We characterised adolescent undiagnosed-wheeze hypothesising associations with behaviour-linked exposures. Methods: The Isle of Wight Birth Cohort (UK) was recruited in 1989 (N=1456) and reviewed at 1, 2, 4, 10 and 18-years. At 18-years, “Asthma” was defined as “ever had asthma” plus either “wheezing in the last 12 months” or “asthma treatment in the last 12 months”, “Undiagnosed-wheeze” as “wheeze in the last 12 months” but “no” to “ever had asthma”, with remaining subjects termed “non-wheezers”. Testing included questionnaires, skin prick tests, spirometry, bronchodilator reversibility and methacholine bronchial challenge. Results: Undiagnosed-wheeze accounted for 22% of wheezing at 18-years. This was mostly adolescent onset with similar symptom frequency/severity to asthma. However, undiagnosed-wheezers had higher FEV 1 /FVC ratio (p=0.002) but lower bronchodilator reversibility (p Conclusions: Undiagnosed-whee...

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescent undiagnosed-wheeze; an unrecognised state associated with significant morbidity, tobacco and paracetamol use

European Respiratory Journal, Sep 1, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Association of allergy-related symptoms with sensitisation to common allergens in an adult European population

Journal of investigational allergology & clinical immunology: official organ of the International Association of Asthmology (INTERASMA) and Sociedad Latinoamericana de Alergia e Inmunología

Atopy is an important risk factor for asthma and allergic diseases. However, the relationship bet... more Atopy is an important risk factor for asthma and allergic diseases. However, the relationship between atopy and allergic symptoms is not fully understood, and may not be the same for different allergy related symptoms and in differing environmental conditions. To study the differences in the association of allergy-related symptoms and atopy, in an adult population from five European countries. A prospective, multi-national study was conducted. Centres included Isle of Wight (UK), Vienna (Austria), Freiburg (Germany), Athens (Greece), and Kaunas (Lithuania). We used five questions derived from the ISAAC (International Study of Asthma and Allergy in Children) and other validated questionnaire, to evaluate the presence of allergic symptoms in a selected adult population. Atopy was assessed by SPT or IgE measurement to 3 core allergens (dust mite, cat and grass pollen) in all centres and 1-2 additional allergens relevant to each area (parietaria, olive, birch pollen, tree pollen mix, do...

Research paper thumbnail of Randomized controlled trial of primary prevention of atopy using house dust mite allergen oral immunotherapy in early childhood

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2015

Children born to atopic parents are at increased risk of sensitization to environmental allergens... more Children born to atopic parents are at increased risk of sensitization to environmental allergens. We sought to demonstrate proof of concept for oral immunotherapy to high-dose house dust mite (HDM) allergen in infancy in the prevention of allergen sensitization and allergic diseases. This was a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, proof-of-concept study involving 111 infants less than 1 year of age at high risk of atopy (≥2 first-degree relatives with allergic disease) but with negative skin prick test responses to common allergens at randomization. HDM extract (active) and appropriate placebo solution were administered orally twice daily for 12 months, and children were assessed every 3 months. Coprimary outcomes were cumulative sensitization to HDM and sensitization to any common allergen during treatment, whereas development of eczema, wheeze, and food allergy were secondary outcomes. All adverse events were recorded. There was a significant (P = .03) reduction in sensitization to any common allergen (16.0%; 95% CI, 1.7% to 30.4%) in the active (5 [9.4%]) compared with placebo (13 [25.5%]) treatment groups. There was no treatment effect on the coprimary outcome of HDM sensitization and the secondary outcomes of eczema, wheeze, and food allergy. The intervention was well tolerated, with no differences between active and placebo treatments in numbers or nature of adverse events. Prophylactic HDM oral immunotherapy is well tolerated in children at high heredity risk. The results met the trial's prespecified criteria for proof of concept in reducing sensitization to any allergen; however, no significant preventive effect was observed on HDM sensitization or allergy-related symptoms.

Research paper thumbnail of Infant nutrition part 2: the midwife's role in allergy prevention

British Journal of Midwifery, 2008

Research paper thumbnail of Methodological Assessment Of Puberty Indicators For Use In Respiratory Research

A58. PEDIATRIC PULMONARY FUNCTION MEASUREMENTS AND TECHNIQUES, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Relationships between age of puberty onset and height at age 18 years in girls and boys

World Journal of Pediatrics, 2013

Background: Changes during puberty may influence final adult height. Height is related to multipl... more Background: Changes during puberty may influence final adult height. Height is related to multiple health conditions, including lung function. We investigated the association between the age of onset of five puberty events and height at age 18 years, analyzing boys and girls separately.

Research paper thumbnail of Are exhaled nitric oxide measurements using the portable NIOX MINO repeatable?

Respiratory Research, 2010

Background: Exhaled nitric oxide is a non-invasive marker of airway inflammation and a portable a... more Background: Exhaled nitric oxide is a non-invasive marker of airway inflammation and a portable analyser, the NIOX MINO (Aerocrine AB, Solna, Sweden), is now available. This study aimed to assess the reproducibility of the NIOX MINO measurements across age, sex and lung function for both absolute and categorical exhaled nitric oxide values in two distinct groups of children and teenagers.

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence of sensitization reported and objectively assessed food hypersensitivity amongst six-year-old children: A population-based study

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, 2006

There is a paucity of information on food hypersensitivity (FHS) in young children and there are ... more There is a paucity of information on food hypersensitivity (FHS) in young children and there are even fewer population-based studies in this area. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of parentally reported FHS, and objectively diagnosed FHS amongst six-year-old children and to establish the rates of sensitization to key allergens. This population-based cohort study recruited 798 6-year-olds resident on the Isle of Wight (UK). Sensitization rates, reported rates of FHS and objectively assessed FHS was established using food challenges. A total of 94 (11.8%) 6 yr olds reported a problem with a food or food ingredient. The rate of sensitization to the pre-defined panel of food allergens was 25/700 (3.6%). Based on open food challenge and/or suggestive history and skin tests, the prevalence of FHS was 2.5% (95% CI 1.5-3.8). Based on double-blind challenges, a clinical diagnosis or suggestive history and positive skin tests, the prevalence was 1.6% (95% CI 0.9-2.7). The rates of perception of FHS are higher than the prevalence of sensitization to main food allergens and the prevalence of FHS based on food challenges. Milk, peanut and wheat were the key food allergens amongst those with positive challenges.

Research paper thumbnail of Factors associated with maternal dietary intake, feeding and weaning practices, and the development of food hypersensitivity in the infant

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, 2009

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of open and double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges in diagnosis of food hypersensitivity amongst children

Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 2007

Keywords diagnosis of food allergy/intolerance, double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges, ... more Keywords diagnosis of food allergy/intolerance, double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges, food challenges, food hypersensitivity in children, open food challenges.

Research paper thumbnail of Reliability and validity of a maternal food frequency questionnaire designed to estimate consumption of common food allergens

Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 2006

Background Maternal food intake during pregnancy may influence the development of food hypersensi... more Background Maternal food intake during pregnancy may influence the development of food hypersensitivity (FHS) in the child. A food frequency questionnaire estimating the frequency with which some of the mains food allergens are consumed was designed and validated.

Research paper thumbnail of Government advice on peanut avoidance during pregnancy ? is it followed correctly and what is the impact on sensitization?

Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 2007

Background In 1998, the UK government issued precautionary advice that pregnant or breast-feeding... more Background In 1998, the UK government issued precautionary advice that pregnant or breast-feeding women with a family history of atopy, may wish to avoid eating peanuts during pregnancy and lactation. This study aimed to assess the compliance with this recommendation and investigate its impact upon peanut sensitization.

Research paper thumbnail of The Rise And Fall Of Peanut Allergy In 3 Cohorts Of Children From The Same Geographical Location

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2008

Research paper thumbnail of Incidence of parentally reported and clinically diagnosed food hypersensitivity in the first year of life

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2006

There are very few population-based studies investigating the incidence of food hypersensitivity ... more There are very few population-based studies investigating the incidence of food hypersensitivity during the first year of life. To determine the incidence of parentally reported food hypersensitivity and objectively diagnosed food hypersensitivity during the first year of life. A birth cohort was recruited (n = 969). At 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, information regarding feeding practices and reported symptoms of atopy were obtained. At 1 year, infants underwent a medical examination and skin prick testing to a battery of allergens. Symptomatic infants underwent food challenges. Adverse reactions to foods were reported by 132 (14.2%) parents at 3, 83 (9.1%) at 6, 49 (5.5%) at 9, and 65 (7.2%) at 12 months. Of the subjects, 1.0% (8/763) were sensitized to aeroallergens and 2.2% (17/763) to food allergens. Between 6 and 9 months and 9 and 12 months, 1.4% (14/969) and 2.8% (27/969) infants were diagnosed with food hypersensitivity on the basis of open food challenges and 0.9% (9/969) and 2.5% (24/969) on the basis of double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges. Cumulative incidence of food hypersensitivity by 12 months was 4% (39/969; 95% CI, 2.9% to 5.5%) on the basis of open food challenges and 3.2% (31/969; 95% CI, 2.2% to 4.5%) on the basis of double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges. Between 2.2% and 5.5% of infants have food hypersensitivity in the first year of life. The rate of parental perception of food hypersensitivity is higher than the prevalence of atopic sensitization to main food allergens or objectively assessed food hypersensitivity. In the first year of life, the rate of parentally perceived food hypersensitivity is considerably higher than objectively assessed food hypersensitivity.

Research paper thumbnail of Characteristics of infants born from atopic vs. non-atopic mothers during the first 6 months of the infants life*1

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2004

RationaleInfants born to families with a history of atopy are more at risk of developing allergic... more RationaleInfants born to families with a history of atopy are more at risk of developing allergic diseases than those born to non-atopic families. Genetic influences, particularly maternal factors play a key role. We have investigated whether infants born to atopic and non-atopic mothers differ in terms of weaning, feeding and immunization practices, family pet ownership and exposure to smoking.

Research paper thumbnail of Sensitization rates to food and aeroallergens amongst 1 year olds in UK ? a population based study*1

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2004

RationaleThe reported prevalence of various manifestations of atopy appears to be increasing. Ear... more RationaleThe reported prevalence of various manifestations of atopy appears to be increasing. Early sensitization to various allergens would be expected to parallel this rise. Many studies have described the rates of sensitization in high-risk populations but there is a paucity of large population based studies. We undertook a whole population cohort study, investigating the rates of sensitization to foods and

Research paper thumbnail of Sensitization rates to food allergens and prevalence of reported and objectively assessed food allergies amongst 15-year olds in UK*1

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2004

RationaleIn the UK most food related fatal anaphylaxis occurs amongst teenagers. We investigated ... more RationaleIn the UK most food related fatal anaphylaxis occurs amongst teenagers. We investigated an unselected population of 15yr olds to ascertain the prevalence of food sensitization and food allergy. Currently there are no epidemiological data available for this age group.

Research paper thumbnail of Patterns of sensitization to food and aeroallergens in the first 3 years of life

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2007

There is a paucity of longitudinal studies of allergen sensitization in childhood. To investigate... more There is a paucity of longitudinal studies of allergen sensitization in childhood. To investigate the pattern of sensitization in early childhood. A nested cohort of children (n = 543) were followed up from birth and given a skin prick test (SPT) at 1, 2, and 3 years of age. A detailed clinical history was obtained. The prevalences of sensitization to aeroallergens were 1.3%, 6.4%, and 10.7% at 1, 2, and 3 years of age. The figures for food allergens were 2.8%, 3.9%, and 3.7%. There was a statistically significant increase in the prevalence of sensitization to >or=1 allergen between years 1 and 2 (P < .001) and years 2 and 3 (P = .032). Among those with a positive SPT at 1 year, 29% tested positive to additional allergens at 2 years (P = .0054). Sensitization to milk or egg at 1 year was a predictor for increased sensitization to peanut at 3 years (odds ratio, 34.8; P < .0001). Sensitization to egg at 1 year was associated with increased sensitization to aeroallergens at 3 years (odds ratios, house dust mite, 27.1, P < .001; cat, 8.9, P < .01; grass, 11.8, P = .005). For peanut and cat allergens, wheal size increases with the age of the child (P = .009 and P = .017, respectively). Sensitization to allergens as demonstrated by positive SPT tends to increase with age, and this change can be detected in the first 3 years of life. The high predictive value for early sensitization and a linear increase in SPT reactivity provide an opportunity for early intervention.

Research paper thumbnail of Food Hypersensitivity (FHS) And Sensitisation To Food Allergens Over The First Three Years Of Life

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2007

UNITED KINGDOM. RATIONALE: This study provides us with information on the prevalence and incidenc... more UNITED KINGDOM. RATIONALE: This study provides us with information on the prevalence and incidence of FHS over the first three years of life and gives a true estimate of whether FHS has increased over the past 20 years. METHODS: A birth cohort comprising all babies born on the Isle of Wight (UK) between September 2001-August 2002 was followed up prospectively from birth with a standardised questionnaire covering: family history of atopy, dietary experience/weaning practices and environmental influences. All children were clinically examined and skin prick tested at the age of one, two and three years. The children underwent SPT to a predefined panel of allergens by standard methodology. RESULTS: 900 (92.9%) children were seen at one year, 858 (88.5%) at two years 891(91.6%) at 3 years. 5.3% (CI: 3.9-7.1) children had a positive SPT to any food in the predefined panel, 10.6% (CI: 8.5-12.9) to any of the predefined aeroallergens and 12.0% (CI: 9.9-14.5) were sensitised to any allergen. Eight hundred and seven children were seen at one, two and three years. Of these, 272 (38%) reported a food related problem; 5.5% ([44/807] CI: 4.0-7.3) were diagnosed with FHS by means of an OFC and history and 4.3% ([35/807], CI: 3.0-6.0) by means of a DBPCFC and history. This is 16.1% of those who reported a problem based on OFC criteria and 12.9% based on DBPCFC criteria. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of FHS has not increased over the past 20 years compared to the data of Bock SA 1987. Funding: Food Standards Agency

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescent undiagnosed-wheeze; an unrecognised state associated with significant morbidity, tobacco and paracetamol use

European Respiratory Journal, 2011

Background: Adolescent undiagnosed-wheeze is poorly understood. Aims: We characterised adolescent... more Background: Adolescent undiagnosed-wheeze is poorly understood. Aims: We characterised adolescent undiagnosed-wheeze hypothesising associations with behaviour-linked exposures. Methods: The Isle of Wight Birth Cohort (UK) was recruited in 1989 (N=1456) and reviewed at 1, 2, 4, 10 and 18-years. At 18-years, “Asthma” was defined as “ever had asthma” plus either “wheezing in the last 12 months” or “asthma treatment in the last 12 months”, “Undiagnosed-wheeze” as “wheeze in the last 12 months” but “no” to “ever had asthma”, with remaining subjects termed “non-wheezers”. Testing included questionnaires, skin prick tests, spirometry, bronchodilator reversibility and methacholine bronchial challenge. Results: Undiagnosed-wheeze accounted for 22% of wheezing at 18-years. This was mostly adolescent onset with similar symptom frequency/severity to asthma. However, undiagnosed-wheezers had higher FEV 1 /FVC ratio (p=0.002) but lower bronchodilator reversibility (p Conclusions: Undiagnosed-whee...

Research paper thumbnail of Adolescent undiagnosed-wheeze; an unrecognised state associated with significant morbidity, tobacco and paracetamol use

European Respiratory Journal, Sep 1, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Association of allergy-related symptoms with sensitisation to common allergens in an adult European population

Journal of investigational allergology & clinical immunology: official organ of the International Association of Asthmology (INTERASMA) and Sociedad Latinoamericana de Alergia e Inmunología

Atopy is an important risk factor for asthma and allergic diseases. However, the relationship bet... more Atopy is an important risk factor for asthma and allergic diseases. However, the relationship between atopy and allergic symptoms is not fully understood, and may not be the same for different allergy related symptoms and in differing environmental conditions. To study the differences in the association of allergy-related symptoms and atopy, in an adult population from five European countries. A prospective, multi-national study was conducted. Centres included Isle of Wight (UK), Vienna (Austria), Freiburg (Germany), Athens (Greece), and Kaunas (Lithuania). We used five questions derived from the ISAAC (International Study of Asthma and Allergy in Children) and other validated questionnaire, to evaluate the presence of allergic symptoms in a selected adult population. Atopy was assessed by SPT or IgE measurement to 3 core allergens (dust mite, cat and grass pollen) in all centres and 1-2 additional allergens relevant to each area (parietaria, olive, birch pollen, tree pollen mix, do...

Research paper thumbnail of Randomized controlled trial of primary prevention of atopy using house dust mite allergen oral immunotherapy in early childhood

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2015

Children born to atopic parents are at increased risk of sensitization to environmental allergens... more Children born to atopic parents are at increased risk of sensitization to environmental allergens. We sought to demonstrate proof of concept for oral immunotherapy to high-dose house dust mite (HDM) allergen in infancy in the prevention of allergen sensitization and allergic diseases. This was a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, proof-of-concept study involving 111 infants less than 1 year of age at high risk of atopy (≥2 first-degree relatives with allergic disease) but with negative skin prick test responses to common allergens at randomization. HDM extract (active) and appropriate placebo solution were administered orally twice daily for 12 months, and children were assessed every 3 months. Coprimary outcomes were cumulative sensitization to HDM and sensitization to any common allergen during treatment, whereas development of eczema, wheeze, and food allergy were secondary outcomes. All adverse events were recorded. There was a significant (P = .03) reduction in sensitization to any common allergen (16.0%; 95% CI, 1.7% to 30.4%) in the active (5 [9.4%]) compared with placebo (13 [25.5%]) treatment groups. There was no treatment effect on the coprimary outcome of HDM sensitization and the secondary outcomes of eczema, wheeze, and food allergy. The intervention was well tolerated, with no differences between active and placebo treatments in numbers or nature of adverse events. Prophylactic HDM oral immunotherapy is well tolerated in children at high heredity risk. The results met the trial's prespecified criteria for proof of concept in reducing sensitization to any allergen; however, no significant preventive effect was observed on HDM sensitization or allergy-related symptoms.

Research paper thumbnail of Infant nutrition part 2: the midwife's role in allergy prevention

British Journal of Midwifery, 2008

Research paper thumbnail of Methodological Assessment Of Puberty Indicators For Use In Respiratory Research

A58. PEDIATRIC PULMONARY FUNCTION MEASUREMENTS AND TECHNIQUES, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of Relationships between age of puberty onset and height at age 18 years in girls and boys

World Journal of Pediatrics, 2013

Background: Changes during puberty may influence final adult height. Height is related to multipl... more Background: Changes during puberty may influence final adult height. Height is related to multiple health conditions, including lung function. We investigated the association between the age of onset of five puberty events and height at age 18 years, analyzing boys and girls separately.

Research paper thumbnail of Are exhaled nitric oxide measurements using the portable NIOX MINO repeatable?

Respiratory Research, 2010

Background: Exhaled nitric oxide is a non-invasive marker of airway inflammation and a portable a... more Background: Exhaled nitric oxide is a non-invasive marker of airway inflammation and a portable analyser, the NIOX MINO (Aerocrine AB, Solna, Sweden), is now available. This study aimed to assess the reproducibility of the NIOX MINO measurements across age, sex and lung function for both absolute and categorical exhaled nitric oxide values in two distinct groups of children and teenagers.

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence of sensitization reported and objectively assessed food hypersensitivity amongst six-year-old children: A population-based study

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, 2006

There is a paucity of information on food hypersensitivity (FHS) in young children and there are ... more There is a paucity of information on food hypersensitivity (FHS) in young children and there are even fewer population-based studies in this area. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of parentally reported FHS, and objectively diagnosed FHS amongst six-year-old children and to establish the rates of sensitization to key allergens. This population-based cohort study recruited 798 6-year-olds resident on the Isle of Wight (UK). Sensitization rates, reported rates of FHS and objectively assessed FHS was established using food challenges. A total of 94 (11.8%) 6 yr olds reported a problem with a food or food ingredient. The rate of sensitization to the pre-defined panel of food allergens was 25/700 (3.6%). Based on open food challenge and/or suggestive history and skin tests, the prevalence of FHS was 2.5% (95% CI 1.5-3.8). Based on double-blind challenges, a clinical diagnosis or suggestive history and positive skin tests, the prevalence was 1.6% (95% CI 0.9-2.7). The rates of perception of FHS are higher than the prevalence of sensitization to main food allergens and the prevalence of FHS based on food challenges. Milk, peanut and wheat were the key food allergens amongst those with positive challenges.

Research paper thumbnail of Factors associated with maternal dietary intake, feeding and weaning practices, and the development of food hypersensitivity in the infant

Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, 2009

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of open and double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges in diagnosis of food hypersensitivity amongst children

Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 2007

Keywords diagnosis of food allergy/intolerance, double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges, ... more Keywords diagnosis of food allergy/intolerance, double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges, food challenges, food hypersensitivity in children, open food challenges.

Research paper thumbnail of Reliability and validity of a maternal food frequency questionnaire designed to estimate consumption of common food allergens

Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 2006

Background Maternal food intake during pregnancy may influence the development of food hypersensi... more Background Maternal food intake during pregnancy may influence the development of food hypersensitivity (FHS) in the child. A food frequency questionnaire estimating the frequency with which some of the mains food allergens are consumed was designed and validated.

Research paper thumbnail of Government advice on peanut avoidance during pregnancy ? is it followed correctly and what is the impact on sensitization?

Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 2007

Background In 1998, the UK government issued precautionary advice that pregnant or breast-feeding... more Background In 1998, the UK government issued precautionary advice that pregnant or breast-feeding women with a family history of atopy, may wish to avoid eating peanuts during pregnancy and lactation. This study aimed to assess the compliance with this recommendation and investigate its impact upon peanut sensitization.

Research paper thumbnail of The Rise And Fall Of Peanut Allergy In 3 Cohorts Of Children From The Same Geographical Location

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2008

Research paper thumbnail of Incidence of parentally reported and clinically diagnosed food hypersensitivity in the first year of life

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2006

There are very few population-based studies investigating the incidence of food hypersensitivity ... more There are very few population-based studies investigating the incidence of food hypersensitivity during the first year of life. To determine the incidence of parentally reported food hypersensitivity and objectively diagnosed food hypersensitivity during the first year of life. A birth cohort was recruited (n = 969). At 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, information regarding feeding practices and reported symptoms of atopy were obtained. At 1 year, infants underwent a medical examination and skin prick testing to a battery of allergens. Symptomatic infants underwent food challenges. Adverse reactions to foods were reported by 132 (14.2%) parents at 3, 83 (9.1%) at 6, 49 (5.5%) at 9, and 65 (7.2%) at 12 months. Of the subjects, 1.0% (8/763) were sensitized to aeroallergens and 2.2% (17/763) to food allergens. Between 6 and 9 months and 9 and 12 months, 1.4% (14/969) and 2.8% (27/969) infants were diagnosed with food hypersensitivity on the basis of open food challenges and 0.9% (9/969) and 2.5% (24/969) on the basis of double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges. Cumulative incidence of food hypersensitivity by 12 months was 4% (39/969; 95% CI, 2.9% to 5.5%) on the basis of open food challenges and 3.2% (31/969; 95% CI, 2.2% to 4.5%) on the basis of double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges. Between 2.2% and 5.5% of infants have food hypersensitivity in the first year of life. The rate of parental perception of food hypersensitivity is higher than the prevalence of atopic sensitization to main food allergens or objectively assessed food hypersensitivity. In the first year of life, the rate of parentally perceived food hypersensitivity is considerably higher than objectively assessed food hypersensitivity.

Research paper thumbnail of Characteristics of infants born from atopic vs. non-atopic mothers during the first 6 months of the infants life*1

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2004

RationaleInfants born to families with a history of atopy are more at risk of developing allergic... more RationaleInfants born to families with a history of atopy are more at risk of developing allergic diseases than those born to non-atopic families. Genetic influences, particularly maternal factors play a key role. We have investigated whether infants born to atopic and non-atopic mothers differ in terms of weaning, feeding and immunization practices, family pet ownership and exposure to smoking.

Research paper thumbnail of Sensitization rates to food and aeroallergens amongst 1 year olds in UK ? a population based study*1

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2004

RationaleThe reported prevalence of various manifestations of atopy appears to be increasing. Ear... more RationaleThe reported prevalence of various manifestations of atopy appears to be increasing. Early sensitization to various allergens would be expected to parallel this rise. Many studies have described the rates of sensitization in high-risk populations but there is a paucity of large population based studies. We undertook a whole population cohort study, investigating the rates of sensitization to foods and

Research paper thumbnail of Sensitization rates to food allergens and prevalence of reported and objectively assessed food allergies amongst 15-year olds in UK*1

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2004

RationaleIn the UK most food related fatal anaphylaxis occurs amongst teenagers. We investigated ... more RationaleIn the UK most food related fatal anaphylaxis occurs amongst teenagers. We investigated an unselected population of 15yr olds to ascertain the prevalence of food sensitization and food allergy. Currently there are no epidemiological data available for this age group.

Research paper thumbnail of Patterns of sensitization to food and aeroallergens in the first 3 years of life

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2007

There is a paucity of longitudinal studies of allergen sensitization in childhood. To investigate... more There is a paucity of longitudinal studies of allergen sensitization in childhood. To investigate the pattern of sensitization in early childhood. A nested cohort of children (n = 543) were followed up from birth and given a skin prick test (SPT) at 1, 2, and 3 years of age. A detailed clinical history was obtained. The prevalences of sensitization to aeroallergens were 1.3%, 6.4%, and 10.7% at 1, 2, and 3 years of age. The figures for food allergens were 2.8%, 3.9%, and 3.7%. There was a statistically significant increase in the prevalence of sensitization to >or=1 allergen between years 1 and 2 (P < .001) and years 2 and 3 (P = .032). Among those with a positive SPT at 1 year, 29% tested positive to additional allergens at 2 years (P = .0054). Sensitization to milk or egg at 1 year was a predictor for increased sensitization to peanut at 3 years (odds ratio, 34.8; P < .0001). Sensitization to egg at 1 year was associated with increased sensitization to aeroallergens at 3 years (odds ratios, house dust mite, 27.1, P < .001; cat, 8.9, P < .01; grass, 11.8, P = .005). For peanut and cat allergens, wheal size increases with the age of the child (P = .009 and P = .017, respectively). Sensitization to allergens as demonstrated by positive SPT tends to increase with age, and this change can be detected in the first 3 years of life. The high predictive value for early sensitization and a linear increase in SPT reactivity provide an opportunity for early intervention.

Research paper thumbnail of Food Hypersensitivity (FHS) And Sensitisation To Food Allergens Over The First Three Years Of Life

Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2007

UNITED KINGDOM. RATIONALE: This study provides us with information on the prevalence and incidenc... more UNITED KINGDOM. RATIONALE: This study provides us with information on the prevalence and incidence of FHS over the first three years of life and gives a true estimate of whether FHS has increased over the past 20 years. METHODS: A birth cohort comprising all babies born on the Isle of Wight (UK) between September 2001-August 2002 was followed up prospectively from birth with a standardised questionnaire covering: family history of atopy, dietary experience/weaning practices and environmental influences. All children were clinically examined and skin prick tested at the age of one, two and three years. The children underwent SPT to a predefined panel of allergens by standard methodology. RESULTS: 900 (92.9%) children were seen at one year, 858 (88.5%) at two years 891(91.6%) at 3 years. 5.3% (CI: 3.9-7.1) children had a positive SPT to any food in the predefined panel, 10.6% (CI: 8.5-12.9) to any of the predefined aeroallergens and 12.0% (CI: 9.9-14.5) were sensitised to any allergen. Eight hundred and seven children were seen at one, two and three years. Of these, 272 (38%) reported a food related problem; 5.5% ([44/807] CI: 4.0-7.3) were diagnosed with FHS by means of an OFC and history and 4.3% ([35/807], CI: 3.0-6.0) by means of a DBPCFC and history. This is 16.1% of those who reported a problem based on OFC criteria and 12.9% based on DBPCFC criteria. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of FHS has not increased over the past 20 years compared to the data of Bock SA 1987. Funding: Food Standards Agency