Food allergy guidance in the United States military: A work group report from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology's Military Allergy and Immunology Assembly

A diagnosis of food allergy adversely affects one's ability to join or remain in the military. Inadequate knowledge or misconceptions of current military-specific standards regarding food allergy and how these apply to enlistment, induction, and retention in the US military can lead potentially to inaccurate counseling because each military service has specific regulations that affect the evaluation and decision-making process. Recognizing this knowledge gap, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology's Military Allergy and Immunology Assembly established a work group that reviewed and summarized all aspects of military instructions, policies, and regulations regarding IgE-mediated food allergy. A flowchart was developed outlining each step of the military entry process for an applicant with a history of food allergy. Furthermore, summary tables were made to provide improved “fluency” regarding each service's medical regulations, whereas key considerations were outlined for the allergist who is evaluating a subject who is seeking military entry or retention. Both civilian and military allergists play an essential role in the evaluation, counseling, and management of patients with a food allergy history. Understanding the service-specific language and regulations regarding food allergy will improve the allergist's awareness, counseling, and management of these individuals.