Self-Reported Skin and Respiratory Symptoms Related to Latex Exposure among 5,087 Hospital Employees in Norway

Abstract

Background: Latex allergy has become prevalent among health care workers. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of self-reported symptoms related to latex exposure among hospital personnel. Methods: Questionnaires addressing symptoms and risk factors for latex allergy were distributed to all employees (n = 5,087) at Haukeland University Hospital. Results: Symptoms associated with latex exposure were reported by 23.8% of the participants. Skin symptoms were most frequently reported – flushing/itching/hives: 21.0%, hand eczema: 11.8% – while systemic and respiratory symptoms were reported by 1.4 and 1.2%, respectively. Approximately twice as many women than men reported symptoms (odds ratio 2.55, confidence interval 2.04–3.18). Symptoms were reported by 33.7% of those with atopy and by 20.0% of those without. The occurrence of symptoms increased significantly with the frequency of use of latex gloves but was unrelated to age, years of exposure or number of surgical procedures. Conclusions: The occurrence of self-reported symptoms was associated with the frequent use of latex gloves, atopy and female gender.