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More than ten years without changes in the prevalence of adverse food reactions among Mexican adults: Comparison of two cross-sectional surveys

Summary

Researchers compared food allergy rates in Mexico between 2012-2013 and 2023-2024, finding that about 19% of adults reported adverse food reactions in both periods. Surprisingly, unlike many other countries that have seen increases in food allergies, the prevalence in Mexico remained stable over the 11-year period. Women and people with allergic skin conditions or hay fever were more likely to experience food reactions, while those aged 25-50 had lower risk.

Background

Food allergies have shown increases in prevalence in various regions globally, including the Americas, Europe, and Asia. However, little is known about temporal trends in adverse food reactions in Latin America, particularly among adults.

Objective

To determine the temporal trend in the prevalence of adverse food reactions among adults in western Mexico by comparing two cross-sectional surveys conducted 11 years apart (2012-2013 and 2023-2024).

Results

Overall prevalence of adverse food reactions remained stable at 19.5% (2012-2013) versus 19.4% (2023-2024). Female sex, allergic rhinitis history, and atopic dermatitis were associated with increased risk, while age 25-50 years was protective. Self-reported anaphylaxis decreased significantly from 2.3% to 0.6%.

Conclusion

The prevalence of adverse food reactions in Mexican adults has remained unchanged over 11 years, contrasting with increases observed in other regions globally. Clinical manifestations and implicated foods remained stable, suggesting dietary and environmental patterns have not significantly altered the epidemiology of food hypersensitivity in this population.
  • Published in:Asia Pacific Allergy,
  • Study Type:Cross-sectional study,
  • Source: PMID: 40933447, DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.0000000000000163
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