Latex Allergy: Risk Factors
Genetics and the environment both play a role in developing a latex allergy. There are groups of people who are more likely to develop a latex allergy than others.
High Exposure to Latex
Since the amount of exposure to latex is a key factor in developing a latex allergy, healthcare workers and patients (especially children) who undergo multiple surgeries are at risk. Children with spina bifida are the most likely group to develop a latex allergy.
Genetic Links to Allergies
There is a genetic link to allergies. Therefore, people are at an increased risk for developing an allergy to latex if they have other allergic conditions such as these:
People who have experienced a reaction after eating banana, kiwi, avocado, potato, strawberries, peaches or chestnuts may also have increased risk for latex allergy.
This information has been approved by Karin Pacheco, MD (March 2009).
