Food Allergy Research Program
For more information about accessing the latest treatment options in our Allergy and Immunology Clinic, please visit https://www.choa.org/medical-services/allergy-and-immunology/food-allergy
The Food Allergy Center is dedicated to diagnosing and managing food allergies in children across the Atlanta area. Launched in 2018, this relatively new food allergy program employs expert allergists and immunologists specializing in pediatric food allergies. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for children with food allergies and to empower families with essential knowledge and tools for effective allergy management.
The mission of the Food Allergy Center at CHOA is to improve the health and safety of children with food allergies through providing leading-edge clinical care, performing research, raising awareness, providing education, and promoting community involvement in Atlanta and the larger Southeastern region.
The vision is to create a safe environment for all children with food allergies through proper diagnosis and treatment and over time to reduce the incidence of food allergies through enhanced prevention efforts. This will be achieved by promoting education and collaboration among schools, families, and healthcare professionals.
Asthma Research Program
The Problem
Each year, 40% of all children with asthma have an asthma attack. While most asthma attacks are managed in outpatient settings, 5% of children require hospitalization. Hospitalized children have an
increased risk of future severe attacks and asthma death.
Although the cornerstone of treatment for children with asthma is inhaled steroid medication, nearly one third of children do not respond well to this treatment. For many of these children, there are no other treatment options, and the severe asthma attacks keep occurring.
The Solution
We believe that children with severe asthma attacks are unique and require novel therapies. We have several studies that are testing new treatments for these children. Examples include:
- Supplements that are designed to change the composition of the bacteria in the gut, to fight against the cold viruses that trigger asthma attacks
- Biologic medications given at regular intervals (every two weeks or monthly) that boost the immune system, to prevent attacks
We also have several studies in children with severe asthma attacks that are identifying new molecules,
proteins, and genes for future drug development
Current Needs
Our studies require that we measure the lungs and inflammation of children with severe asthma attacks in unique ways (that are not part of a routine clinical examination). Our current needs include:
- Equipment for measuring the breathing capacity of children
- Technology solutions for measuring asthma symptoms such as digital monitors and artificial intelligence software
- Laboratory equipment and tests for measuring inflammation
Other Related Research
Psychology
Dr. Kaitlin Proctor provides clinical care to patients in the food allergy clinic and conducts research to better understand the psychosocial impacts for families diagnosed with Food Allergies. She is an expert in Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and seeks to better understand food allergy as a risk factor for ARFID and to advance the practice guidelines for those with ARFID.