Social determinants and quality of life in food allergy management and treatment.

Abstract

Food allergies (FA) significantly impact the quality of life (QOL) and health-related quality of life (HRQL) of patients and families managing this chronic condition. Social determinants of health (SDOH) are pivotal, non-medical factors that influence health outcomes and exacerbate disparities in FA diagnosis, treatment, and management. The five domains of SDOH-economic stability, education access and quality, healthcare access and quality, neighborhood and built environment, and social and community context-shape the lived experiences of individuals with FA. Challenges such as food insecurity (FI), limited access to specialty care, and the high cost of allergen-free foods disproportionately burden under-resourced and marginalized populations, leading to gaps in care and adverse outcomes. This paper explores the interplay between SDOH and FA management, focusing on the economic, emotional, and social barriers to optimal care. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of understanding domain-specific QOL, emphasizing tailored interventions to address inequities. Future research must prioritize inclusive representation in clinical trials, innovative strategies to overcome economic and systemic barriers, and tools to measure the unique QOL impacts of FA across diverse populations. Addressing these challenges is critical to promoting health equity and improving outcomes for all individuals affected by FA.