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| |  Allergy/Asthma Association Issues a Latex Hypersensitivity White Paper HARRISBURG, Pa., June 10, 1996 -- Imagine being rushed to the emergency department at your local hospital following an auto accident. Rushed to a facility that can provide immediate care to your injuries. Rushed to an environment that is extremely conscious of its sterility. Rushed into latex-covered hands that could cause you to go into life threatening anaphylactic shock! For an increasing number of individuals this is a true case scenario. Reactions to latex have appeared only in the past decade, but already the number of affected people is significant and growing. Latex sensitivity has become an increasing problem due to its use in innumerable items in the health care industry. Latex is also widely used in modern society products, and minute latex particles, thought to be from automotive tires, have even been found in outdoor air. The Pennsylvania Allergy and Asthma Association has authored a Latex Hypersensitivity White Paper in an effort to make health care professionals, health care facility managers and the general public aware of the potential hazards of latex allergy. The publication examines diagnosis and treatment of latex allergy. Among its findings are: -- Latex allergy can be diagnosed by way of a thorough history and physical examination by a physician familiar with the problem. -- Skin testing may be performed and is best conducted by an allergist who is prepared to treat a possible systemic reaction. -- Mildly affected persons can protect themselves by avoiding direct contact with latex products or by medication with antihistamines. -- Highly allergic persons are encouraged to wear a Medic Alert bracelet identifying their allergy, and be instructed in self-administration of epinephrine in emergencies. The Pennsylvania Allergy and Asthma Association, an organization consisting of close to 200 allergists practicing in the State of Pennsylvania, has distributed this important White Paper to various health care professionals and hospitals throughout the state. Hospitals and physicians' offices will have the responsibility of educating their employees on identifying latex allergic patients and on treating patients they encounter with latex sensitivity. The four-page Latex Hypersensitivity White Paper is available to the public by writing to the: Pennsylvania Allergy and Asthma Association
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