The issues of latex allergy has always been a concern for the healthcare industry1. In a recent market research study 93% of surgeons and nurses in Europe have a moderate or high concern with the risk of latex allergic reaction from latex surgical gloves2.
Even though the prevalence of latex allergy in the general population is low, less than 1%3, there is still a risk and some studies show that up to 6% of the population can be latex sensitised1.
One of the most important factors that may lead to a person's likelihood of developing an allergic reaction to latex is their degree of exposure. Other factors include if the individual is atopic or has pre-disposed conditions such as eczema or asthma.
Allergic sensitivity and reactions are a concern for hospitals as they can reduce efficiency:
• Unforeseen surgical and post-operative complications
• Lost working hours for healthcare professionals
Latex sensitisation is an important medical problem and to minimise the healthcare professionals’ and patients’ risk for adverse reactions to latex, an increasing number of healthcare facilities use only synthetic surgical gloves
References
1. Neugut Alfred I, MD, PhD et al. Anaphylaxis in the United States, An Investigation Into Its Epidemiology. Arch Intern Med. 2001; 161: 15-21.
2. Market research Europe (Germany, Sweden, France, UK and Spain). 2011.
3 Kim K T et al. Implementation recommendations for making health care facilities latex safe. AORN Journal. 1998.