Risk Perception in Food Allergy Sufferers: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis

Area of Science:

• Food Allergy Research
• Psychosocial Health
• Risk Perception Studies

Background:

• Food allergies (FA) significantly impact individuals' lives, necessitating a deeper understanding of their risk perception.
• Existing research often overlooks the multifaceted nature of risk perception in food allergy management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and conceptually visualize risk perception in food allergy sufferers.
• To propose a comprehensive definition of risk perception for practice, research, and policy.
• To identify key attributes, antecedents, and consequences of risk perception in individuals with FA.

Main Methods:

• A concept analysis using Rodgers' method.
• Systematic literature search across PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and PsycARTICLES databases.
• Inclusion of 34 English-language, peer-reviewed articles appraised with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).

Main Results:

• Risk perception attributes include situational uncertainty, coping probability, social participation, and emotional responses.
• Antecedents involve FA perceptions, self-concept, social support, management skills, and social context.
• Consequences encompass behavioral choices, allergic reactions, and perceived social limitations.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive definition of risk perception in FA sufferers, integrating physical and psychosocial dimensions, was established.
• Understanding these risk perception attributes is vital for healthcare providers, family members, and caregivers.
• Findings can inform individualized support, caregiver strategies, food product design, allergen labeling, and public education for safer food environments.