New Research Explores Suicide Risk in Adolescents with Food Allergies

A recent study, Increased Risk of Suicide Attempts Among Adolescents With Food Allergy in the United States, led by Saurabh Kalra, M.S., M.P.H., a Ph.D. student in Epidemiology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in the Department of Public Health Sciences, uncovers critical insights into the mental health challenges faced by adolescents with food allergies.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey (2015–2019) was analyzed, encompassing a nationally representative sample of 22,017 high school students aged 14 to 18. Among these adolescents, 15.6% reported having food allergies, and 2.3% had attempted suicide, requiring medical attention.

The analysis revealed that adolescents with food allergies were 63% more likely to report serious suicide attempts compared to their peers without food allergies. This association persisted even after accounting for other risk factors, including feelings of sadness, experiences of bullying, and insufficient sleep. 

“This research highlights the significant mental health disparities faced by adolescents with food allergies,” said Kalra. “By shedding light on these associations, we hope to empower healthcare providers, schools, and communities to address the unique challenges experienced by this group.” 

Results also showed that food allergies were linked to other factors associated with suicide risk, such as feelings of sadness and hopelessness, bullying, and disrupted sleep patterns. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating mental health screenings and support services into care for adolescents with food allergies. 

Call to Action for Healthcare Providers and Educators

The implications of this research extend beyond the clinic.

Kalra and his collaborators advocate for a multi-pronged approach to address these disparities. They recommend that healthcare providers routinely screen adolescents with food allergies for mental health challenges and that schools implement supportive measures, such as access to counselors and bullying prevention programs.

“Adolescents with food allergies face a unique intersection of physical and psychological challenges,” Kalra noted. “Interdisciplinary collaboration between healthcare providers, educators, and policymakers is essential to mitigate these risks and promote well-being.” 

Exploring the connection between food allergies and mental health challenges, the study offers critical insights to support future research and the development of effective interventions.

Kalra presented these findings at the American Public Health Association’s Annual Meeting, contributing to discussions on addressing disparities and improving outcomes for adolescents managing food allergies.

Written by Deycha Torres Hernández, published on December 16, 2024.