P52: 250 K: A YOUTH ALLERGY AWARENESS PROJECT BY THE NATIONAL ALLERGY STRATEGY

Abstract

Background: Approximately 250 000 teens and young adults in Australia are living with severe allergy. Teens and young adults are at increased risk of fatal anaphylaxis. This project aimed to engage with young Australians living with severe allergy, to identify education needs and provide appropriate resources. Method: A national online survey of 12-25 year olds living with severe allergy was conducted focussing on allergy management barriers, areas of need, communication and education methods. The survey was promoted via email, social media and allergy clinics. Participants were also recruited using a member-based organisation of students in Australia. Required resources and the design concepts for these resources were developed based on the survey results. Focus group sessions identified the campaign brand. Additional feedback on resource design and content was sought through the establishment of a Youth Advisory Team. Findings: The survey and focus groups identified that teens and young adults want their peers to know about their severe allergies but are reluctant to have the conversation themselves; they minimise the seriousness of their allergies so that they do not draw attention to themselves and are not perceived as 'causing a fuss'; and younger teens face challenges in social contexts as they become more independent. Managing intimate relationships when food allergic was also an area of concern. Teens and young adults indicated that they needed resources to help them manage their severe allergy; would like the community to understand food allergy better; would like to connect with others managing food allergy; and preferred to access credible information via a website. Conclusion: Resources were developed specifically for teens and young adults managing severe allergy, particularly food allergy. The interactive website (250 k.org.au) is styled to engage young people, provides credible, age-appropriate information and allows them to share information via an avatar which they create.