ConexiantEarly Peanut Introduction: A Lasting Solution to Peanut Allergy?

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A 12-year follow-up study of the Learning Early About Peanut Allergy (LEAP) trial demonstrates sustained protection against peanut allergy through early introduction. The LEAP-Trio study, published in NEJM Evidence, followed 508 participants to age 13, showing significantly lower peanut allergy rates in the early consumption group versus the avoidance group, despite varying consumption patterns after age 6.

Key Points:

• The LEAP-Trio study revealed peanut allergy prevalence of 4.4% in the early consumption group compared to 15.4% in the avoidance group at age 13, maintaining the protective effect observed in the original trial
• Early peanut introduction and consumption until age 5 provided sustained protection, even with reduced or inconsistent consumption between ages 6-12
• The study demonstrated that continuous peanut consumption throughout childhood is not necessary to maintain tolerance once established through early introduction
• Immunological markers differed between consumption and avoidance groups, suggesting long-term immune system modifications
• The findings support existing guidelines recommending early peanut introduction as a preventive strategy that could benefit the 3.6 million children born annually in the United States

“Today’s findings should reinforce parents’ and caregivers’ confidence that feeding their young children peanut products beginning in infancy according to established guidelines can provide lasting protection from peanut allergy.”
– Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, NIAID Director

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