Natural rubber latex allergy: the impact on lifestyle and quality of life

2004 ◽  
Vol 51 (5-6) ◽  
pp. 317-318 ◽  
Author(s):  
V. J. Lewis ◽  
M. M. U. Chowdhury ◽  
B. N. Statham
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Natural Rubber ◽  
Natural Rubber Latex ◽  
Latex Allergy ◽  
Rubber Latex ◽  
The Impact

Considering the switch to a latex-free glove policy to safeguard staff and patients

2020 ◽  
Vol 29 (20) ◽  
pp. 1172-1176
Author(s):  
Steven Jeffery
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Cost Effectiveness ◽  
Natural Rubber ◽  
Clinical Outcomes ◽  
Natural Rubber Latex ◽  
Rubber Latex ◽  
Free Alternative ◽  
Latex Gloves

While it is difficult to imagine that before the late 1800s, surgeons in the theatre environment operated on patients without gloves, gloves are now a clinical necessity. Their use has risen exponentially over the last 30 years, along with concerns over staff and patient allergy and sensitivity to the natural rubber latex proteins used in their manufacture. Having used latex gloves for the better part of 35 years, the author recently evaluated a latex-free alternative. In this article, which presents a rationale for the introduction of a latex-free glove policy across NHS departments and trusts, particularly in theatre settings, the author presents his experience, together with cases from four other surgeons, as well as evidence from the literature regarding potential clinical outcomes, quality of life and cost-effectiveness associated with latex-free gloves.

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