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Dietary management experiences and support needs of primary caregivers of children with asthma and food allergy: a qualitative descriptive study
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DOI：10.3389/fnut.2026.1904972.png)
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Abstract
En 中文
ObjectiveChildren living with both asthma and food allergy require daily management that connects respiratory symptoms; allergen avoidance; emergency preparedness; and adequate nutrition. This study aimed to explore dietary management experiences and support needs among primary caregivers of school-age children with physician-diagnosed asthma and food allergy in Deyang; China.MethodsA qualitative descriptive design was used. Semi-structured Mandarin interviews were conducted with 24 primary caregivers; and the data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsFour themes were developed: (1) managing “double danger” when food allergy reactions; asthma symptoms; respiratory infections; and culturally mediated food concerns overlapped; (2) building protective food routines at home; school; and social events; (3) balancing safety; nutrition; and normal childhood; and (4) needing integrated; practical; and credible support across asthma; food allergy; nutrition; school communication; and emergency planning.ConclusionCaregivers' dietary work extends beyond allergen avoidance and involves ongoing risk interpretation; emotional labor; and coordination across settings. The findings support the need for clearer; family-centered counseling and school-facing tools; but do not establish the effectiveness of any specific intervention. Future intervention development should test integrated education; individualized dietary planning; and age-appropriate self-management support with caregivers; children; clinicians; dietitians; and schools.
Keywords:
thematic analysis
food allergy
qualitative research
caregivers
dietary management
support needs
childhood asthma
nutrition counseling
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