Only 0.08 percent of the general population react to latex. Several groups have a higher risk for reactions to latex. Patients with spina bifida have an incidence of 18 to 40 percent. Any person with a congenital urologic abnormality is also at risk and generally has a history of allergic reactions to common latex products, such as toy balloons and rubber bands. People with allergic reactions to foods such as avocado, celery, kiwi, passion fruit, and bananas are also at risk for latex reactions.
Most institutions now have formal protocols and are well equipped to handle latex sensitivity.
Publications, community healthcare forums, and television programs are vital in educating the public about the dangers of latex sensitivity. Informed consumers spur healthcare facilities to develop institutional guidelines and protocols for dealing with latex allergies. If you have a latex sensitivity or allergy, stay alert for hidden sources of latex in your environment. Make sure your healthcare practitioners and facilities have a protocol in place and that they adhere to it. If there is any doubt, ask questions.