Latex is a natural rubber product that comes from the sap of the rubber tree. During the past one hundred years, latex products have become commonplace in our environment. Latex is used in more than 40,000 medical, industrial and household products. Examples of products that contain latex are gloves, balloons, condoms, rubber bands, erasers, and bathmats.
Natural latex contains protein.
These proteins are capable of causing allergic reactions, ranging from rashes to cardiac arrest. Before 1980, there were few latex allergies. With the increase use of latex gloves, there was an increase in latex reactions. The major risk factor for developing a latex allergy is repeated and prolonged exposure to latex. Healthcare workers and other people who need to wear latex gloves have an increased risk of developing a latex allergy.