Latex allergy: an emerging problem in health care

Allergy to latex has been increasing as the use of latex products has grown. The increase is disproportionately occurring in those people with myelodysplasias, those who have undergone multiple surgical procedures, and health care providers. Within those groups, the most susceptible to latex allergy are people with other allergies. Early identification of high-risk individuals and their avoidance of products containing latex can minimize the occurrence of this allergic response. Heightened awareness among health care providers is needed because latex is very common in hospitals and clinics. Inadvertent exposure places latex-sensitive individuals in danger of anaphylaxis. Nurses caring for infants and children are able to modify the environment of those at risk for latex allergy, reducing exposure to this potentially dangerous substance. Teaching families of children at risk will help them avoid latex in the home; many common household substances contain latex and are likely to trigger allergic responses.