A new study showed the number of children with a peanut allergy has shot up more than 20 percent since 2010, and 2.5 percent of children in the U.S. have the allergy. The risk of developing a peanut allergy was nearly double for black children compared to white children. New guidelines introduced earlier this year recommend parents of children with a risk of developing peanut allergies should introduce them early to peanut-containing food.
Another new study showed food allergies are on the rise for adults. Almost half of those surveyed developed one or more food allergies as adults. The most common food allergy among adults is shellfish, followed by tree nuts.
Dogs may provide more than furry friendship. Scientists said babies who are exposed to dogs in the home before birth may get some protection from eczema. Dogs may also provide protections against asthma.
