Prevention of allergy to acrylates and latex in dental personnel.

Contact allergy to acrylate monomers and immediate hypersensitivity to latex gloves in dental personnel calls for preventive measures to reduce the risks. The aim of the study was to evaluate the preventive effect of an information campaign after a 3-year follow-up. The campaign included instructions and training according to an ordinance, both in writing and orally, e.g. concerning the choice of products and protection devices and the proper handling of the materials. The follow-up was carried out through 1997-2000 and included all eligible 513 subjects. Information on new cases was ascertained by a questionnaire and reports from the occupational health service and the department of dermatology. The number of expected new cases was based on the incidence rate, derived from a preceding prevalence study in the same county, and the exposed years at risk in the follow-up period. No new case of allergy to acrylates or latex rubber was found in the follow-up period as against 4.91 expected (p = 0.007). In conclusion, this study indicates that occupational allergies can be prevented successfully, but requires vigorous measures to influence the behaviour and the routines of daily work in dental practice.