Newswise — ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL - February 23, 2015 - A new study released today from the New England Journal of Medicine discloses findings that have been in the works for 10 years from the Learning Early About Peanut (LEAP) study. The study and accompanying editorial indicate that early introduction of peanuts to young children may offer protection from the development of peanut allergies.

The LEAP study results have been anticipated by allergists across the country that diagnose and treat children with peanut and other food allergies on a daily basis. Members of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, (ACAAI) advise that children at increased risk for peanut allergy have appropriate diagnostic testing.

“The results of this study are very exciting because of the implications for children at risk for peanut allergy,” says allergist Stanley Fineman, MD, ACAAI past president. “Some of these children may be candidates for a cautious oral challenge, as discussed in the LEAP study and accompanying editorial. For those children, peanut allergy tests and treatment should be performed by board-certified allergists.”

"ACAAI is pleased that there is ongoing research to help children with this potentially life threatening problem," says Fineman. "For parents of children who are at risk for peanut allergy, it is vital that they not attempt this therapy on their own. They should seek assistance from an appropriately-trained allergist who can closely supervise and monitor the results."

Dr. Fineman, who is based in Atlanta, is available for interviews to discuss the research as well as treatment options for children who might be at risk for peanut allergies.