Investigators

  • Claudia R Baquet, MD, MPH, PhD, PATIENTS Program, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy
  • Jasmine Cooper-Williams PhD, MA, PATIENTS Program, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy
  • Michelle Medeiros MS, MA, CCRP, PATIENTS Program, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy
  • Kathleen Kennedy, Dean, Xavier University College of Pharmacy
  • Joan Tilghman, Dean, Coppin State University College of Health Professions and Nursing

Project Summary 

Food allergies (FAs) affect an estimated 8% of children and 11% of adults in the US. Individuals with an FA may experience FA-related economic burden, lower health-related quality of life, and increased risk of comorbid atopic conditions (i.e., eczema, asthma, and/or allergic rhinitis). However, the distribution of FA burden may vary across different racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic strata.

This project uses qualitative data collection methods (i.e. key informant interviews, focus groups) to assist the FDA OMHHE and CBER in developing and refining communication and engagement strategies for diverse food allergy patients and caregivers. Building on existing work, this project will engage Xavier University of Louisiana College of Pharmacy, and Coppin State University College of Health Professions and Nursing, both HBCUs as well as community-based organizations in an exploration of diverse food allergy patients and caregiver/stakeholder perspectives and their unmet needs and to advance tailored, culturally competent communication and engagement strategies for diverse populations.

Populations Served

Black or African American, Asian, American Indian or Alaska Native, underserved White, and Hispanic or Latino.

Goals/Aims

The central hypothesis of this proposal is grounded in community engaged research (CEnR) and will advance health equity for diverse food allergy patients and caregivers and to advance tailored, culturally competent communication and engagement strategies for diverse populations. 

Aims

  • To determine, patient and caregiver/parents’ views on the specific unmet needs of minority and underserved FA patients (primarily pediatric and some adults) and their caregivers;  
  • To determine, from relevant clinicians and other health professionals, the needs of minority and diverse FA patients and caregivers;  
  • To obtain input from patients, parents/caregivers and clinicians, recommended communication and engagement strategies;  
  • To solicit input from FA patients and caregivers on elevating patient and caregiver voices in FDA activities.

Age

Under 18, 18-64, 65 and above

Geographic Location

Maryland, Louisiana, District of Columbia

Rural

Yes