FDA Proposes Ban on Most Powdered Gloves

It may make them easier to wear for some health care workers, but federal officials are looking to ban powder-laced latex surgical gloves. Last week, the FDA officially proposed the ban in a federal filing.

According to the FDA filing, powdered gloves are linked to a number of issues including breathing problems, wound inflammation, and post-surgical adhesions. The agency’s findings are based on five years of scientific literature review as well as public comments. 

Dr. Jeffrey Shuren, head of the FDA's medical device center said, “This ban is about protecting patients and health care professionals from a danger they might not even be aware of.”

This is only the second time the FDA has ever proposed a ban on a medical supply. The last ban was issued in 1983 against fake hair implants.

For most health care workers, the ban will not pose a serious concern as powdered gloves have been gradually phased out of many medical facilities.

To learn more, read the entire article.