Who is at risk for latex allergy?
Latex products are everywhere. Anyone can become allergic to latex. People with the highest risk are those who have had many operations, especially in childhood. People with spina bifida and urologic abnormalities are also at risk. Health care workers and rubber industry workers are at risk. Health care workers with hay fever seem to have an even higher chance of becoming allergic to latex. A quarter of all health care workers with hay fever show signs of being latex sensitized. Who is at greatest risk for latex allergy? The greatest risk is to individuals who are repeatedly exposed to products containing latex, particularly: * Patients with a history of early and/or recurrent surgical or medical procedures, such as children with spina bifida. * Health care personnel and others who wear latex gloves. * Individuals with occupational exposure, such as workers involved in the manufacture of latex gloves or catheters. Other risk factors are less defined but appear to include: * A history o
