Preventing Silicosis in Mining Workers

Description

Preventing Silicosis in Mining Workers

Occupational silicosis

Silicosis is the most common permanent disease with no cure and one of the serious occupational lung disease worldwide. It occurs everywhere, but is especially common in developing countries. It is an important cause of respiratory morbidity. It is irreversible fibrosis of the lungs caused by inhalation of free silica dust.

The term silicosis is reserved for the lung disorder caused by inhalation of free silica, which is an untreatable progressive disease and is the commonest and most widespread of all occupational diseases. Exposure to large amount of free silica can pass unnoticed because, silica is odourless, non-irritant and does not cause any immediate noticeable effect and hence is confused with ordinary dust. Silica exposure also predisposes to development of pulmonary tuberculosis, which is an important public health problem in the country.

It is estimated that about 10 million people working in various types of mines, ceramics, potteries, foundries, metal grinding, stone crushing, agate grinding, slate pencil industry etc., are occupationally exposed to free silica dust and are at potential risk of developing silicosis.

Silica particles end up the air sacs of the lung, causing inflammation and scarring that damages the sacs, preventing gas exchange and normal breathing. The disease will be fatal as the inflammation spreads and lung tissue becomes damaged.

There is no specific treatment for silicosis, therapy being directed largely at the complications of the disease. The first step is obviously stopping continuing exposure. This will not stop the gradual progression of the disease, but will prevent it form an even faster rate of progression. Patients are administered oxygen and steroids to help them breathe as the disease runs its course.
Prevention of the disease is key action to control silicosis, because there is no way to reverse the disease. It is estimated that Silicosis resulted in at least about 50000 deaths globally every year.
You must be signed in to join an event.
Speakers

ashok kumar

More Info
Preventing Silicosis in Mining Workers

Category

Description

Speakers

ashok kumar

This website uses cookies
