(M3) Advancing Health Equity in Food Allergy Prevention and Treatment: Bridging Gaps in Care and Knowledge

The impact of immunoglobulin (Ig) E-mediated food allergies is widespread and affect nearly 11% of adults and 8% of children in the United States (US), significantly diminishing quality of life and imposing economic burdens on patients, families, health systems, and payers. Persistent disparities in food allergy prevalence and outcomes across socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic groups underscore the need for targeted interventions to address these inequalities. In 2024, the FDA approved omalizumab, an IgE-targeted monoclonal antibody therapy, for IgE-mediated food allergies, offering new therapeutic potential alongside emerging immunotherapy. Evidence also supports early allergen introduction as a preventive strategy. In this session, faculty will address how managed care organizations play a critical role in addressing these disparities by facilitating coordinated care, enhancing access to specialists, and supporting preventive measures.