Canadians overwhelmingly support making epinephrine devices, life-saving treatments for severe allergic reactions, more accessible in public spaces. This is according to a national Leger survey of over 1,500 Canadians, conducted for Food Allergy Canada. The survey found that 83% of Canadians agree that life-saving treatments for severe allergic reactions should be easily accessible in public spaces, similar to how defibrillators (AEDs) are used in cardiac emergencies. This strong support is particularly evident in settings where children are present, with 90% of Canadians believing schools should have epinephrine devices on hand. The survey also highlights a gap in public understanding of who can provide treatment. While 91% of Canadians believe paramedics carry epinephrine devices, confidence drops to 64% for firefighters and 40% for police, indicating a need for clearer communication about emergency response protocols. This is a critical issue, as severe allergic reactions can escalate quickly and without warning. The survey also reveals a disparity in confidence in recognizing anaphylaxis. Only 21% of Canadians strongly agree they could recognize the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, despite 63% agreeing they are confident in their ability to do so. This lack of confidence is concerning, as timely access to epinephrine devices can significantly improve outcomes in severe allergic reactions. The findings of the survey are supported by experts in the field, who emphasize the importance of expanding access to epinephrine devices in public spaces and ensuring patients at risk are prepared to act. Food Allergy Canada's executive director, Jennifer Gerdts, stated that Canadians want life-saving treatment to be available in public spaces, and that expanding access to epinephrine devices is a practical step that can help save lives, especially in rural or remote settings. The survey also uncovered some interesting gender differences. Women show higher conviction on both the seriousness of food allergies and their ability to recognize anaphylaxis, with 44% of women strongly agreeing that food allergies are a serious medical condition, compared to 37% of men. Additionally, 25% of women strongly agree they could recognize anaphylaxis, compared to 18% of men. The survey's findings underscore the need for improved public awareness and education about severe allergic reactions and the importance of quick access to epinephrine devices. The results also highlight the importance of addressing the gap in confidence in recognizing anaphylaxis, as severe allergic reactions can become life-threatening within minutes. The survey was conducted online by Leger, a Canadian-owned market research firm, with a sample size of 1,521 Canadians aged 18 and above. The survey's margin of error is +/- 2.5%, with a 90% retention rate. Food Allergy Canada is a national non-profit organization dedicated to educating, supporting, and advocating for Canadians affected by food allergies. The organization focuses on providing education and support to navigate food allergies, building informed communities, and acting as a national voice on key issues. The survey's findings emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach to managing severe allergic reactions, involving public access to epinephrine devices, improved emergency response protocols, and increased public awareness and education.
