Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) is the most common food allergy in early childhood in the UK, affecting around 2 to 3 percent of infants. Symptoms can range from digestive and skin conditions such as colic, constipation, diarrhoea, eczema and vomiting, to more severe reactions including anaphylaxis. CMPA is also increasingly recognised as a potential gateway to other allergic conditions, including asthma, eczema and allergic rhinitis. Early identification and appropriate management are essential, particularly as most non IgE mediated CMPA resolves within the first three years of life.

 

However, inconsistent use of primary care guidance and limited awareness of food allergy presentations can lead to delayed diagnosis, prolonged symptoms and avoidable distress for families. Poor management increases pressure on health services and wider economic costs.

 

Delays are not experienced equally. Children in more deprived or underserved communities are more likely to face fragmented care pathways and reduced access to dietetic and specialist support. Addressing CMPA effectively therefore requires not only clinical awareness, but equitable and consistent pathways that reduce variation and improve outcomes for all children.