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Yatera K, Nishida C. Contemporary Concise Review 2023: Environmental and occupational lung diseases. Respirology 2024; 29:574-587. [PMID: 38826078 DOI: 10.1111/resp.14761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Air pollutants have various effects on human health in environmental and occupational settings. Air pollutants can be a risk factor for incidence, exacerbation/aggravation and death due to various lung diseases, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), hypersensitivity pneumonitis or pneumonia (HP), pulmonary fibrosis such as pneumoconiosis and malignant respiratory diseases such as lung cancer and malignant pleural mesothelioma. Environmental and occupational respiratory diseases are crucial clinical and social issues worldwide, although the burden of respiratory disease due to environmental and occupational causes varies depending on country/region, demographic variables, geographical location, industrial structure and socioeconomic situation. The correct recognition of environmental and occupational lung diseases and taking appropriate measures are essential to their effective prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiro Yatera
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Chinatsu Nishida
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
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2
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Hore-Lacy F, Gwini S, Glass DC, Dimitriadis C, Jimenez-Martin J, Hoy RF, Sim MR, Walker-Bone K, Fisher J. Psychometric properties of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) in silica-exposed workers from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:181. [PMID: 38439053 PMCID: PMC10913222 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05613-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) has been used in a range of occupational cohorts, but only recently in stone benchtop workers undergoing screening for silicosis. The aim of this study was to compare psychometric properties of the PSS-10 in stone benchtop workers amongst those born overseas or who used an interpreter. METHODS Stone benchtop workers in Melbourne, Australia completed the PSS-10 as part of their occupational screening for silicosis. Internal consistency was assessed with Cronbach's α for the total score and the positive and negative subscales. Validity was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Analysis was performed for the total group and for subgroups according to sex, interpreter use, overseas-born, and language spoken at home. RESULTS The results of 682 workers with complete PSS-10 scores were included in analysis. Most participants were male (93%), with mean age 36.9 years (SD 11.4), with just over half (51.6%) born in Australia, 10.1% using an interpreter, and 17.5% using a language other than English at home. Cronbach's α for the overall group (α = 0.878) suggested good internal consistency. DISCUSSION CFA analysis for validity testing suggested PSS-10 performance was good for both sexes, moderate for country of birth and language spoken at home categories, but poorer for those who used an interpreter. Whilst professional interpreters provide a range of benefits in the clinical setting, the use of translated and validated instruments are important, particularly in cohorts with large numbers of migrant workers. CONCLUSION This study describes the psychometric properties of the PSS-10 in a population of stone benchtop workers, with good internal consistency, and mixed performance from validity testing across various subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Hore-Lacy
- Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | - Ryan F Hoy
- Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
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3
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Chen CH, Tsai PJ, Chang WW, Chen CY, Chen CY, Yates D, Guo YL. Dose-response relationship between lung function and chest imaging response to silica exposures in artificial stone manufacturing workers. Environ Health 2024; 23:25. [PMID: 38429786 PMCID: PMC10908069 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-024-01067-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occupational exposure to artificial stone, a popular material used for countertops, can cause accelerated silicosis, but the precise relationship between silica dose and disease development is unclear. OBJECTIVES This study evaluated the impact of silica exposure on lung function and chest imaging in artificial stone manufacturing workers. METHODS Questionnaire and spirometry assessments were administered to workers in two plants. A high-exposure subset underwent further evaluation, including chest CT and DLco. Weighting factors, assigned as proxies for silica exposure, were based on work tasks. Individual cumulative exposures were estimated using area concentration measurements and time spent in specific areas. Exposure-response associations were analyzed using linear and logistic regression models. RESULTS Among 65 participants, the mean cumulative silica exposure was 3.61 mg/m3-year (range 0.0001 to 44.4). Each 1 mg/m3-year increase was associated with a 0.46% reduction in FVC, a 0.45% reduction in FEV1, and increased lung function abnormality risk (aOR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.03-1.56). Weighting factors correlated with cumulative exposures (Spearman correlation = 0.59, p < 0.0001), and weighted tenure was associated with lung function abnormalities (aOR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01-1.09). Of 37 high-exposure workers, 19 underwent chest CT, with 12 (63%) showing abnormal opacities. Combining respiratory symptoms, lung function, and chest X-ray achieved 91.7% sensitivity and 75% specificity for predicting chest CT abnormalities. CONCLUSION Lung function and chest CT abnormalities occur commonly in artificial stone workers. For high-exposure individuals, abnormalities on health screening could prompt further chest CT examination to facilitate early silicosis detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Hsien Chen
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, College of Medicine and NTU Hospital, National Taiwan University (NTU), No. 7, Zhongshan S. Rd., Zhongzheng Dist, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Perng-Jy Tsai
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Rd., North District, Tainan, 70403, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Wen Chang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Rd., North District, Tainan, 70403, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yao Chen
- Division of Occupational Hazards Assessment, Institute of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health, Ministry of Labor, No. 99, Ln. 407, Hengke Rd., Xizhi Dist, New Taipei City, 221004, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yong Chen
- Division of Occupational Hazards Assessment, Institute of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health, Ministry of Labor, No. 99, Ln. 407, Hengke Rd., Xizhi Dist, New Taipei City, 221004, Taiwan
| | - Deborah Yates
- Respiratory Medicine, St Vincent's Public Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- St Vincent's Hospital Clinical School, Sydney, Australia
| | - Yue Leon Guo
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, College of Medicine and NTU Hospital, National Taiwan University (NTU), No. 7, Zhongshan S. Rd., Zhongzheng Dist, Taipei City, Taiwan.
- Institute of Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene, National Taiwan University, No. 17, Xuzhou Rd., Zhongzheng Dist, Taipei City, Taiwan.
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, No. 35, Keyan Rd., Zhunan Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan.
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, National Taiwan University, Rm 339, 17 Syujhou Road, Taipei, 100, Taiwan.
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4
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Seneviratne M, Shankar K, Cantrell P, Nand A. Respirable Silica Dust Exposure of Migrant Workers Informing Regulatory Intervention in Engineered Stone Fabrication. Saf Health Work 2024; 15:96-101. [PMID: 38496276 PMCID: PMC10944149 DOI: 10.1016/j.shaw.2024.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Silicosis among workers who fabricate engineered stone products in micro or small-sized enterprises (MSEs) was reported from several countries. Workplace exposure data of these workers at high risk of exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust are limited. Methods We surveyed workers performing cutting, shaping and polishing tasks at 6 engineered stone fabricating MSEs in Sydney, Australia prior to regulatory intervention. Personal exposure to airborne RCS dust in 34 workers was measured, work practices were observed using a checklist and worker demography recorded. Results Personal respirable dust measurements showed exposures above the Australian workplace exposure standard (WES) of 0.1 mg/m3 TWA-8 hours for RCS in 85% of workers who performed dry tasks and amongst 71% using water-fed tools. Dust exposure controls were inadequate with ineffective ventilation and inappropriate respiratory protection. All 34 workers sampled were identified as overseas-born migrants, mostly from three linguistic groups. Conclusions Workplace exposure data from this survey showed that workers in engineered stone fabricating MSEs were exposed to RCS dust levels which may be associated with a high risk of developing silicosis. The survey findings were useful to inform a comprehensive regulatory intervention program involving diverse hazard communication tools and enforcing improved exposure controls. We conclude that modest occupational hygiene surveys in MSEs, with attention to workers' demographic factors can influence the effectiveness of intervention programs. Occupational health practitioners should address these potential determinants of hazardous exposures in their workplace surveys to prevent illness such as silicosis in vulnerable workers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kiran Shankar
- Chemical Analysis Branch, TestSafe Australia, Thornleigh, Australia
| | | | - Aklesh Nand
- Hygiene & Toxicology Team, SafeWork NSW, Parramatta, Australia
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5
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Rathebe PC. Occupational exposure to silicon dioxide and prevalence of chronic respiratory symptoms in the cement manufacturing industries: A review. J Public Health Res 2023; 12:22799036231204316. [PMID: 37822998 PMCID: PMC10563475 DOI: 10.1177/22799036231204316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this review was to assess the association between occupational exposure to silicon dioxide and chronic respiratory symptoms among workers in the cement manufacturing industries. Approximately 60 articles published from 2010 to 2021 were found and four independent reviewers extracted the data from each eligible study using PubMed, Google scholar etc. The following terms were used: exposure to cement dust, exposure to silicon dioxide etc. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were considered while searching for the studies. In this review, a total of 14 articles were included in this study. Chronic cough was the most prevalence exposure symptoms (OR 1.90; CI 9.90, 0.78), with wheezing reported to be the least experienced symptom (OR 1.34; CI 11.5, 0.50). Two studies reported exposure concentration ranging from 0.026 to 0.044 mg/m3, and 0.27 mg/m3 was also reported in one study. The FEV1 and FVC was lower in exposed workers when compared to the control group. Studies reported the crystalline silica quartz to be 21.5% in limestone, 22.5% in bauxite, 21.22% in clinker, and 21.22% in raw cement. Chronic cough, phlegm, wheezing, and shortness of breath or dyspnea was found to be significantly prevalence among workers, particularly cleaning personnel, in the cement manufacturing industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoka C Rathebe
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
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6
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Zhang Y, Rajaram N, Lau A, Mehta K, Holness DL, Tarlo SM, Arrandale VH. Silicosis, asbestosis, and pulmonary fibrosis in Ontario, Canada from 1996 to 2019. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:670-678. [PMID: 37302125 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Silicosis is a fibrotic lung disease caused by exposure to respirable crystalline silica. Historically, silicosis was common among miners and other professions in the 20th century, and in recent decades has re-emerged in coal mining and appeared in new workplaces, including the manufacture of distressed jeans and artificial stone countertops. METHODS Physician billing data for the province of Ontario between 1992 and 2019 were analyzed across six time-periods (1993-1995, 1996-2000, 2001-2005, 2006-2010, 2011-2015, and 2016-2019). The case definition was two or more billing records within 24 months with a silicosis diagnosis code (ICD-9 502, ICD-10 J62). Cases from 1993 to 1995 were excluded as prevalent cases. Crude incidence rates per 100,000 persons were calculated by time-period, age, sex, and region. Analyses were repeated in parallel for pulmonary fibrosis (PF) (ICD-9 515, ICD-10 J84) and asbestosis (ICD-9 501; ICD-10 J61). RESULTS From 1996 to 2019, 444 cases of silicosis, 2719 cases of asbestosis and 59,228 cases of PF were identified. Silicosis rates decreased from 0.42 cases per 100,000 in 1996-2000 to 0.06 per 100,000 people in 2016-2019. A similar trend was observed for asbestosis (1.66 to 0.51 per 100,000 persons) but the incidence rate of PF increased from 11.6 to 33.9 per 100,000 persons. Incidence rates for all outcomes were higher among men and older adults. CONCLUSIONS A decreasing incidence of silicosis was observed in this analysis. However, the incidence of PF increased, consistent with findings from other jurisdictions. While cases of silicosis have been recorded among artificial stone workers in Ontario these cases do not seem to have impacted the population rates thus far. Ongoing, periodic surveillance of occupational diseases is helpful for tracking population-level trends over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhi Zhang
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nikhil Rajaram
- Department of Medicine, Division of Occupational Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ambrose Lau
- Department of Medicine, Toronto Western Hospital, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Respirology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kruti Mehta
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - D Linn Holness
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Occupational Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, Unity Health Toronto-St Michaels, Ontario, Canada
- Center for Research Expertise in Occupational Disease, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan M Tarlo
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Toronto Western Hospital, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Respirology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, St Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Center for Research Expertise in Occupational Disease, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Victoria H Arrandale
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Occupational Cancer Research Centre, Ontario Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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7
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Hoy RF, Brims FJ. The National Occupational Respiratory Disease Registry (NORDR): it is time to learn from failure. Med J Aust 2022; 216:328-330. [PMID: 35325499 PMCID: PMC9314969 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.51465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan F Hoy
- Monash University, Melbourne, VIC.,Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Fraser J Brims
- Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, WA.,Curtin University, Perth, WA
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8
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Hore-Lacy F, Hansen J, Dimitriadis C, Hoy R, Fisher J, Glass D, Sim MR. Predictors of psychological stress in silica-exposed workers in the artificial stone benchtop industry. Respirology 2022; 27:455-461. [PMID: 35421270 PMCID: PMC9322397 DOI: 10.1111/resp.14257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background and objective Artificial stone benchtops are a popular kitchen product, but dust from their preparation and installation contains respirable crystalline silica, which causes silicosis. Silicosis is a preventable, permanent lung disease. The aim of this study was to assess mental health in workers from the artificial stone benchtop industry at risk of silicosis. Methods Workers from the artificial stone benchtop industry undergoing assessment for silica‐associated disease were included. Information on demographics; occupational, medical and smoking history; modified Medical Research Council dyspnoea scale; Perceived Stress Scale (PSS‐10) questionnaire; spirometry; and chest x‐ray was collected. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were conducted. Results Of the 547 participants, the majority were men, aged under 45 years, in the industry for less than 10 years. With each increase of dyspnoea score, PSS‐10 scores increased. Higher PSS‐10 scores were also observed in those no longer in the industry, with a history of anxiety or depression, attending assessment early in the programme and a medium exposure duration. Participants who used an interpreter reported lower stress. No difference was observed across job title, age, sex, smoking, spirometry or chest x‐ray categories after multivariate analysis. Conclusion This study identified workers with dyspnoea as likely to report higher stress. Other factors, such as leaving the industry, early attendance and a history of anxiety or depression, are also helpful in identifying workers at risk of poorer mental health outcomes. This study describes psychological stress scores in silica‐exposed workers from the artificial stone benchtop industry and identifies predictors of elevated stress. See relatedEditorial
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Hore-Lacy
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessy Hansen
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christina Dimitriadis
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ryan Hoy
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane Fisher
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah Glass
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Malcolm R Sim
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Hoy RF, Jeebhay MF, Cavalin C, Chen W, Cohen RA, Fireman E, Go LHT, León-Jiménez A, Menéndez-Navarro A, Ribeiro M, Rosental PA. Current global perspectives on silicosis-Convergence of old and newly emergent hazards. Respirology 2022; 27:387-398. [PMID: 35302259 PMCID: PMC9310854 DOI: 10.1111/resp.14242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Silicosis not a disease of the past. It is an irreversible, fibrotic lung disease specifically caused by exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust. Over 20,000 incident cases of silicosis were identified in 2017 and millions of workers continue to be exposed to RCS. Identified case numbers are however a substantial underestimation due to deficiencies in reporting systems and occupational respiratory health surveillance programmes in many countries. Insecure workers, immigrants and workers in small businesses are at particular risk of more intense RCS exposure. Much of the focus of research and prevention activities has been on the mining sector. Hazardous RCS exposure however occurs in a wide range of occupational setting which receive less attention, in particular the construction industry. Recent outbreaks of silicosis associated with the fabrication of domestic kitchen benchtops from high‐silica content artificial stone have been particularly notable because of the young age of affected workers, short duration of RCS exposure and often rapid disease progression. Developments in nanotechnology and hydraulic fracking provide further examples of how rapid changes in technology and industrial processes require governments to maintain constant vigilance to identify and control potential sources of RCS exposure. Despite countries around the world dealing with similar issues related to RCS exposure, there is an absence of sustained global public health response including lack of consensus of an occupational exposure limit that would provide protection to workers. Although there are complex challenges, global elimination of silicosis must remain the goal. See relatedEditorial
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan F Hoy
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Alfred Hospital, Prahran, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mohamed F Jeebhay
- Occupational Medicine Division and Centre for Environmental & Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Catherine Cavalin
- CNRS (IRISSO, UMR CNRS-INRAE 7170-1427), Université Paris-Dauphine, PSL, Soutien à la mobilité internationale (SMI) du CNRS, Paris, France.,Madrid Institute for Advanced Study (MIAS), Madrid, Spain.,Interdisciplinary Laboratory for the Evaluation of Public Policies, LIEPP, Sciences Po, Paris, France.,Employment and Labour Research Centre, CNAM, Noisy-le-Grand, France
| | - Weihong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (Incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Robert A Cohen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Division, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Elizabeth Fireman
- Institute of Pulmonary and Allergic Diseases, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Department Occupational Environmental Medicine, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Leonard H T Go
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Division, School of Public Health, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Antonio León-Jiménez
- Pulmonology, Allergy and Thoracic Surgery Department, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
| | | | - Marcos Ribeiro
- Pulmonary Department, Universidade Estadual de Londrina: Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
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10
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Pérez-Alonso A, González-Domínguez ME, Novalbos-Ruiz JP, León-Jiménez A, Córdoba-Doña JA. Artificial Stone Silicosis: Accumulation of errors in the resurgence of an occupational disease: A qualitative study. Work 2021; 70:433-442. [PMID: 34633345 DOI: 10.3233/wor-213582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to artificial stone machining, under the conditions in which marble workers work with this new product, can cause silicosis. OBJECTIVE To examine the experiences of marble workers affected, both in workshop and during home installation of countertops, before diagnosis of silicosis. METHODS Qualitative study in which 10 open-ended semistructured interviews were conducted with marble workers diagnosed with silicosis after machining artificial stone countertops in Cádiz, Spain. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded using a directed content analysis. Codes were organized into themes. RESULTS Interviews up to 120 minutes and transcript analysis revealed three themes: 1) Heavy exposure for piecework: construction boom in an environment of labor deregulation and high demand for the novel product; 2) Poor working conditions: dry machining of artificial stone without proper protection in the workshop and greater exposure during home installation of countertops; 3) Concatenated legal transgressions: deficiencies in prevention and health surveillance without safety conditions for the correct handling of artificial stone. CONCLUSIONS The fight against an emerging occupational disease-artificial stone silicosis-should focus on detecting affected workers and avoiding new cases, forcing joint efforts to achieve rigorous compliance with health surveillance and protecting marble workers to achieve healthy and safe workplaces.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - José Pedro Novalbos-Ruiz
- Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health Department, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain.,Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA), Cádiz, Spain
| | - Antonio León-Jiménez
- Pulmonology, Alergology and Thoracic Surgery Service, University Hospital of Puerta del Mar, Cádiz, Spain.,Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA), Cádiz, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Córdoba-Doña
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Service, University Hospital of Jerez de la Frontera, Cádiz, Spain.,Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA), Cádiz, Spain
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11
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Yates DH, Perret JL, Davidson M, Miles SE, Musk AW. Dust diseases in modern Australia: a discussion of the new TSANZ position statement on respiratory surveillance. Med J Aust 2021; 215:13-15.e1. [PMID: 34053078 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.51097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah H Yates
- St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW.,St Vincent's Clinical School, UNSW, Sydney, NSW
| | - Jennifer L Perret
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
| | | | - Susan E Miles
- Calvary Mater Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW.,University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW
| | - A W Musk
- University of Western Australia, Perth, WA
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12
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Abstract
Recently, there has been a worldwide resurgence in pneumoconiosis, or pulmonary fibrosis due to occupational mineral dust exposure. In Queensland, Australia, there has been a re-emergence of coal workers' pneumoconiosis and silicosis. Some coal mining communities have experienced a resurgence of progressive massive fibrosis in the USA and a worldwide epidemic is occurring of accelerated silicosis due to exposure to artificial stone. These diseases are all preventable and should not be occurring in the 21st century. Best practice prevention includes reduction of exposure to mineral dusts or, ideally, prevention of exposure altogether. However, where dust exposure has occurred, respiratory surveillance can provide a strategy for early disease detection. It is important to identify early signs of occupational lung disease at a stage where intervention may be beneficial, though it must be acknowledged that progression may occur even after cessation of exposure to dusts. Respiratory surveillance should be distinguished from population screening and case finding, which are different methods used for disease investigation and control. Designing an ideal respiratory surveillance programme is challenging, as there is no single test that accurately identifies early disease. Several different respiratory disorders may occur related to the same exposure(s). Physicians organising and interpreting tests used in respiratory surveillance must be aware of the broad range of potential work-related respiratory conditions, complexities in diagnosis, and appropriate interpretation of the exposure history, as well as current management options. A working knowledge of the compensation and medicolegal avenues available to workers in individual jurisdictions is also useful. Organising and interpreting respiratory surveillance for mineral dust-exposed workers requires specialist knowledge and understanding of the potential range of diseases, as well as a detailed occupational historyhttp://bit.ly/37KXSE4
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Wood
- Wood Consulting Partners, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Deborah Yates
- Dept of Thoracic Medicine, St Vincent's Public Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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13
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Jones CM, Pasricha SS, Heinze SB, MacDonald S. Silicosis in artificial stone workers: Spectrum of radiological high‐resolution CT chest findings. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2020; 64:241-249. [PMID: 32157793 DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.13015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stefan B Heinze
- Department of Radiology Royal Melbourne Hospital Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Sharyn MacDonald
- Department of Radiology Canterbury and West Coast Hospitals Christchurch New Zealand
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Turner MT, Samuel SR, Silverstone EJ, Yates DH. Silica Exposure and Connective Tissue Disease: An Underrecognized Association in Three Australian Artificial Stone Workers. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2020; 201:378-380. [DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201905-1057le] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Martínez González C, Prieto González A, García Alfonso L, Fernández Fernández L, Moreda Bernardo A, Fernández Álvarez R, Rolle-Sóñora V, Ruano Raviña A, Casan Clarà P. Silicosis in Artificial Quartz Conglomerate Workers. Arch Bronconeumol 2019; 55:459-464. [PMID: 30879876 DOI: 10.1016/j.arbres.2019.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Silicosis is a chronic progressive disease caused by inhalation of crystalline silica. Most cases develop in underground mine workers and in subjects involved in the extraction of natural stone (slate and granite). In view of the progressive emergence of new cases of silicosis in artificial quartz conglomerate workers, we performed a study to analyze the characteristics of silicosis produced by this new agent in Spain. METHODS The study consisted of a series of 96 cases of silicosis diagnosed according to international criteria during the period 2010-2017. We analyzed clinical, radiological, pathological and functional characteristics. RESULTS Mean age of participants was 45 years; 55% had simple silicosis and 45% had complicated silicosis. Ten patients were diagnosed with accelerated silicosis, with a mean age of 33 years. Mean time of exposure to conglomerates was 15 years, and 77% had not used appropriate protection measures. Half of the patients were asymptomatic and presented different classic forms on chest X-ray and chest high-resolution computed tomography, along with ground-glass images. No lung function changes were recorded. CONCLUSIONS Silicosis in artificial quartz conglomerate workers occurs in a young, actively employed population, a considerable percentage of whom present an accelerated form. They have few symptoms and no functional limitations. Protection measures are scarce. It is important to characterize these features to provide early diagnosis and implement the necessary preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Martínez González
- Área del Pulmón, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Asturias, España.
| | - Amador Prieto González
- Servicio de Radiodiagnóstico, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Oviedo, Asturias, España
| | - Lucía García Alfonso
- Servicio de Neumología, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario A Coruña (CHUAC), A Coruña, España
| | - Luis Fernández Fernández
- Servicio de Anatomía Patológica, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Oviedo, Asturias, España
| | - Ariel Moreda Bernardo
- Área del Pulmón, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Asturias, España
| | - Ramon Fernández Álvarez
- Área del Pulmón, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Asturias, España
| | - Valeria Rolle-Sóñora
- Plataforma de Bioestadística y Epidemiología, Fundación para la Investigación y la Innovación Biosanitaria del Principado de Asturias (FINBA), Oviedo, Asturias, España
| | - Alberto Ruano Raviña
- Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, La Coruña, España
| | - Pere Casan Clarà
- Área del Pulmón, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Asturias, España
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Artificial Stone Associated Silicosis: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16040568. [PMID: 30781462 PMCID: PMC6406954 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16040568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Silicosis is a progressive fibrotic lung disease that is caused by the inhalation of respirable crystalline silica. Due to its high silica content, artificial stone (AS) can become a possible source of hazardous dust exposure for workers that are employed in the manufacturing, finishing, and installing of AS countertops. Therefore, the aim of this review was to verify the association between AS derived silica exposure and silicosis development, and also then define the pathological characteristics of the disease in relation to specific work practices and preventive and protective measures that were adopted in the workplace. A systematic review of articles available on Pubmed, Scopus, and Isi Web of Knowledge databases was performed. Although the characteristics of AS-associated silicosis were comparable to those that were reported for the disease in traditional silica exposure settings, some critical issues emerged concerning the general lack of suitable strategies for assessing/managing silica risks in these innovative occupational fields. Further research that is designed to assess the hazardous properties of AS dusts, levels of exposure in workplaces, and the effectiveness of protective equipment appears to be needed to increase awareness concerning AS risks and induce employers, employees, and all factory figures that are engaged in prevention to take action to define/adopt proper measures to protect the health of exposed workers.
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Hoy RF, Brims F. Occupational lung diseases in Australia. Med J Aust 2017; 207:443-448. [PMID: 29129163 DOI: 10.5694/mja17.00601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Occupational exposures are an important determinant of respiratory health. International estimates note that about 15% of adult-onset asthma, 15% of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and 10-30% of lung cancer may be attributable to hazardous occupational exposures. One-quarter of working asthmatics either have had their asthma caused by work or adversely affected by workplace conditions. Recently, cases of historical occupational lung diseases have been noted to occur with new exposures, such as cases of silicosis in workers fabricating kitchen benchtops from artificial stone products. Identification of an occupational cause of a lung disease can be difficult and requires maintaining a high index of suspicion. When an occupational lung disease is identified, this may facilitate a cure and help to protect coworkers. Currently, very little information is collected regarding actual cases of occupational lung diseases in Australia. Most assumptions about many occupational lung diseases are based on extrapolation from overseas data. This lack of information is a major impediment to development of targeted interventions and timely identification of new hazardous exposures. All employers, governments and health care providers in Australia have a responsibility to ensure that the highest possible standards are in place to protect workers' respiratory health.
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