Interventions for caregivers of children with food allergy: a systematic review

Background: Studies have identified that food allergy (FA) in children is related to poorer caregiver quality of life (QoL). However, it is unclear which interventions are most effective at improving outcomes for caregivers of children with FA. This review aimed to identify and determine the efficacy, acceptability and quality of interventions for caregivers of children with FA.

Methods: A systematic search of four databases was conducted to identify studies evaluating any intervention that targeted wellbeing and support in caregivers of children with FA. Studies were not excluded based on design and were rated for quality using the mixed method appraisal tool (MMAT) and the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised controlled trials (RCTs).

Results: Fifteen studies met inclusion; eight studies used a pre-test post-test design, four used a post-test design, two were RCTs and one a case-control design. Seven studies were educational interventions, five were psychological, and three involved peer/professional support. All interventions had high participant acceptability; some evidence for cognitive behavioural interventions in supporting mothers was observed. Educational interventions tended to be associated with improvements in FA knowledge. With exception of three studies, most studies were assessed as poor or moderate in terms of quality.

Conclusion: There is a paucity of high-quality research evaluating interventions to improve outcomes in parents of children with FA. Limited evidence suggest that cognitive behavioural interventions could benefit some mothers, but this has not been tested in other populations. Future research should use methodologically sound designs with validated outcome measures.