Allergies in infants overview and current landscape
09:00 - 09:35
Allergic disease is on the rise and has been termed the ‘Modern Epidemic’ for which there is, so far, no cure. Food allergy in infants, which can often go undiagnosed for some time, is particularly distressing for both the infants and their families and it can have an adverse effect on healthy growth and development. I will be discussing the current landscape of allergy in infants, as well as considering the treatment and care of these children.
Anaphylaxis – with so much uncertainty, what is certain?
09:45 - 10:05
Severe allergy and anaphylaxis in infants presents many challenges and much uncertainty. This presentation will explore the most common causes of anaphylaxis in infants, the challenges in recognising the signs of anaphylaxis and how it differs from older children/adults and the treatment of anaphylaxis in infants
The Impact on daily life of caring for infant at risk of anaphylaxis can be significant and we will explore how the Anaphylaxis Campaign works with healthcare professionals to support families through the BSACI guidance for weaning infants and preventing food allergy in higher risk infants.
Human milk oligosaccharides: shaping infant health - Sponsored by Abbott Nutrition
10:15 - 11:00
Breastmilk contains a diverse number of bioactive compounds that nature has designed to specifically support the developing infant. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) account for the third largest fraction of breastmilk 1. They are a complex mixture of indigestible carbohydrates with multiple functions 2. Increasing evidence shows the exceptional role HMOs play in supporting the developing gut and microbiome, immunity and in defence against harmful pathogens 3. This short talk by Hayley Kuter, Medical Science Liaison for Abbott Nutrition outlines HMO functions in breastmilk.
References 1. Ayechu-Muruzabal V et al (2018). Diversity of human milk oligosaccharides and effects on early life immune development. Front Pediatr; 6:239 doi: 10.3389/fped.2018.00239. 2. Lis-Kuberka J, Orczyk-Pawiłowicz M (2019). Sialylated oligosaccharides and glycoconjugates of human milk - the impact on infant and newborn protection, development and well-being. Nutrients; 11:306-8. 3. Donovan SM, Comstock SS (2016). Human milk oligosaccharides influence neonatal mucosal and systemic immunity. Ann Nutr Metab; 69(2):42-51.
