The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed a ban on most powdered medical gloves in the U.S.
The ban would apply to powdered surgical gloves, powdered patient exam gloves, and absorbable powder for lubricating a surgeon's glove. The gloves pose an unreasonable and substantial risk of illness or injury since they can cause respiratory allergic reactions and wound inflammation, the FDA noted.
"The ban is about protecting patients and healthcare professionals from a danger they might not even be aware of," stated Jeffrey Shuren, MD, director of the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health, in a press release. "We take bans very seriously and only take action when we feel it's necessary to protect the public."
The change is open to public comment for 90 days. To comment, visit the proposed rule document website.
