ET

Study begins on kiwi fruit allergy rise By Roger Highfield Science Editor (Filed: 06/07/2001)

THE first major study into the prevalence of kiwi fruit allergy in Britain has been launched.

Specialists at Southampton General Hospital have become concerned at the rise in cases, which mirrors the increasing popularity of actinidia chinensis - also known as the Chinese gooseberry or kiwi fruit.

Babies as young as three months are suffering reactions as the exotic fruit becomes a common weaning food. Symptoms can range from a tingling sensation around the mouth to a life-threatening shock.

Dr Jane Lucas, the University of Southampton paediatric senior registrar, who is leading the 18-month study, said: "In our clinics we have seen increasing numbers of patients over the last few years but at present no one knows how common it is."

Anyone who would like to take part in the trial should contact Snita Bansal on 023 8079 6867 or email her on sb11@soton.ac.uk.

-- Anonymous, July 06, 2001