(1) Background: Food allergy (FA) is an immune-mediated hypersensitivity to foods, significantly contributing to childhood morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, characteristics, and influencing factors of parent-reported FAs among children in Saudi Arabia. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized a validated parental questionnaire distributed across all regions of Saudi Arabia. Data from 2130 participants were collected and analyzed using SPSS v. 26 and Prism software v. 10.3.0. (3) Results: Parent-reported FA prevalence was 15.2%. Egg was the most common allergen (6.2%), followed by tree nuts (4.1%), peanuts (4.0%), milk (3.8%), and sesame (3.2%). Significant geographical variations were observed, with the western region having the highest burden (p < 0.001). Older children had higher rates of shellfish and fish allergies. Parental allergies and co-existing asthma/drug allergies were positively associated with childhood FAs. (4) Conclusions: This study highlights a substantial burden of parent-reported FAs in Saudi Arabia, with regional variations in food allergen distribution. Parental allergies and co-existing allergic conditions may influence FA risk.
Background/Objectives: A food allergy (FA) is an immune-mediated hypersensitivity reaction to specific food. FA reactions vary from mild to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Despite the effectiveness of epinephrine auto-injectors (EAIs), barriers such as lack of knowledge, limited access, and fear of needles hinder their use. This study explores EAI possession among children with parent-reported food allergies in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted from October 2023 to February 2024 included 296 parents of children with reported food allergies under the age of 18. Data were collected through a validated self-administered questionnaire. Results: Among 2102 respondents, 296 (14.1%) reported having a child with a food allergy. Most respondents were female (70%), with asthma being the most common comorbidity (26%). Common allergens included eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, milk, and sesame. Only 23.3% of children had an EAI. Higher EAI possession was associated with parental education, maternal allergy history, and access to specialist care. Conclusions: EAI possession among Saudi children with food allergies is suboptimal. Targeted educational interventions, increased access to allergists, and comprehensive management plans are essential to improve preparedness for anaphylaxis.