Prevalence and Effects of Food Allergies among Young Adults at a University Setting of Sri Lanka

Food allergy is a growing global health concern, potentially life-threatening, and requiring prompt action. While studies in Sri Lanka have addressed food allergy prevalence in children and adolescents, there is limited information on the prevalence, severity, and associated factors among young adults. Hence, this serves as one of the first large-scale studies in Sri Lanka focusing on food allergy prevalence and its academic and social effects among young adults. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence, clinical manifestations, scope of allergens, socio-demographic variables, and high-risk behaviors related to food allergies in young adult students at the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. A questionnaire was distributed to undergraduates via email and online platforms, resulting in 1169 valid responses. Statistical analysis using descriptive and inferential methods was performed on the data set (p < 0.05). The prevalence of self-reported food allergies was 17.5%, with significantly higher rates among females (20.3%) than males (10.6%) (χ², p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis indicated that prior childhood diagnosis increased the likelihood of strict allergen avoidance (p < 0.01). In addition, history of previous hospitalization was also a significant predictor (p < 0.05). Socioeconomic status showed a modest association with the prevalence of food allergy (p = 0.03). These findings highlight the gender and early-life allergy history as key determinants of allergy management behaviors. These observations indicate that food allergies substantially impact young adults adversely affecting their quality of life. The present study highlights the need for appropriate confirmatory testing and treatment to avoid unnecessary dietary restrictions. Further research is required to explore the molecular basis of food allergens specific to Sri Lankan diets.