Latex Facts At-A-Glance

• Latex allergy is a reaction to certain proteins in latex rubber.
  
  
• Up to 73% of persons with spina bifida will be affected by latex allergies. It is theorized that sensitization may occur from the early, recurrent exposure to rubber products through multiple surgeries, diagnostic tests and examinations, also from bladder and bowel programs.
  
  
• The amount of latex exposure needed to produce sensitization or an allergic reaction in unknown.
  
  
• Increasing the exposure to latex proteins increases the risk of developing allergic symptoms.
  
  
• Certain medications may reduce the allergy symptoms but complete latex avoidance, though quite difficult, is the most effective approach.
  
  
• People who are employed in the health care industry are at risk of developing latex allergy because they frequently use latex gloves.
  
  
• An estimated 8-12% of health care workers are latex sensitive.
  
  
• Workers in other industries that use latex gloves or in industries that manufacture latex products are also at risk for developing latex allergy.
  
  
• Symptoms of latex allergy include skin redness, rash, hives, itching, sneezing, asthma, and anaphylactic shock.
  
  
• Latex allergy is also associated with allergies to certain foods such as avocados, potatoes, bananas, tomatoes, chestnuts, kiwi fruit and papaya.
  
  
• Home items which may contain latex include balloons, pacifiers, dental dams, rubber bands, elastic used in clothing, beach toys, Koosh balls, baby bottle nipples, condoms, diaphragms, diapers and art supplies.
  
  
• Healthcare items that may contain latex include gloves, catheters, tourniquets, elastic bandages, ace wraps, I.V. tubing injection ports, medication vials, adhesive tape and Band-Aids.