Powder-Free Latex Gloves Reduce Latex Allergy Related Illness

Filed in archive Information About , Latex/Rubber Allergies on March 12, 2009

Photo courtesy of iStockphoto, Image# 4791586

In one of the first entries I've written on latex allergies, I mentioned that the use of powdered gloves makes it worse for someone who has latex allergies. The rubber proteins adhere to the powder, which may become airborne and inhaled, thus providing additional contact route.

In the Geisinger Medical Center, the transition to powder-free latex gloves in 2001 has been noted to have significantly reduced the number of claims for latex-related illnesses from their workers. They concluded that although the use of powder-free gloves was more costly, it partially offset by a decrease in workers' compensation claim and operating room expenses.

Obviously, the use of powder-free gloves does not completely solve the problem of latex allergies. But until a suitable and sustainable alternative can be found, this is a step in the right direction.