The study, called the LEAP-Trio trial, examined data from the United Kingdom on children who had participated in the previous LEAP trial as babies. The LEAP trial found that introducing peanut products to infants with eczema and egg allergies resulted in an 81% reduction in peanut allergy prevalence at age 5 compared to those who avoided peanuts.

The goal of the LEAP-Trio trial was to determine if the reduced risk of peanut allergy would persist into adolescence. The findings showed that children who had regularly consumed peanuts from infancy to around age 5 had a 71% lower prevalence of peanut allergy compared to those who had avoided peanuts. The researchers concluded that early introduction and consistent consumption of peanuts provided "lasting tolerance" into adolescence.

These findings have important implications for preventing peanut allergies in children. The study's co-author, Gideon Lack, professor of pediatric allergy at King's College London, emphasized that peanut allergy usually develops between six and 12 months of life. Therefore, introducing peanuts before the allergy develops is crucial for prevention.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) previously recommended delaying the introduction of peanuts until three years of age but later removed this recommendation in 2008. The AAP updated its guidance in 2019, stating that early introduction of peanuts may actually prevent peanut allergy. Now, the new study provides further support for this guidance.

Peanut allergies have become a significant public health concern in the United States, affecting approximately 2% of children, which translates to nearly 1.5 million individuals under the age of 18. Peanuts are known to cause severe allergic reactions, including life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, director of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, stated that the study's findings should give confidence to parents and caregivers, as following established guidelines for introducing peanut products to young children can offer lasting protection from peanut allergy.

The study also highlighted the importance of early introduction of peanuts for children at low risk of allergies, ideally between four and six months old. Parents are advised to consult with a pediatrician before introducing peanuts, especially if their child has severe eczema or pre-existing egg allergy.

To ensure safety, smooth peanut butter can be mixed into a puree to avoid choking hazards, and chunks of peanuts should be avoided. The introduction should start with a small amount and gradually increase every 3-4 days.

Dr. Purvi Parikh, an allergist and immunologist, expressed that the study's findings are reassuring, indicating that even if peanut consumption becomes less consistent after age 5, the lasting protection against peanut allergies remains.

The study confirms the notion supported by previous research that early introduction of peanuts induces tolerance. However, it is crucial to involve a pediatrician in the decision-making process for introducing peanuts to children.

With the potential to prevent tens of thousands of peanut allergy cases each year, the implementation of this safe and simple strategy can significantly improve the health and well-being of children in the United States.

Overall, the study highlights the importance of early and regular introduction of peanuts in infancy to reduce the risk of peanut allergies, providing valuable information for parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.