Accelerated silicosis in workers exposed to agate dust in Guangzhou, China*

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Abstract
Background: An investigation of a small private agate mill was prompted by an agate worker who presented with silicosis in Guangzhou, China, in December 1998.Methods: The work processes and records of dust measurements of the mill were examined. The mean total dust concentrations ranged from 3.0 to 9.9 mg/m3; 86–88% of the particles' diameter was smaller than 5.0 μm. Free SiO2 content from agate samples was measured. Occupational history was obtained and X‐ray chest and lung function was carried out.Results: Free SiO2 content of the agate was 90.5%. Thirty‐two men involved in processing agate stone were examined. The mean ( ± SD) age was 29.8 ( ± 4.9) years and the mean (± SD) duration of exposure was 3.5 (± 1.7) years. Fifteen cases (47%) were diagnosed as accelerated silicosis. Up to September 1999, three had died from respiratory failure and five were in critical condition.Conclusions: Silicosis is an important problem in primitive work environments. Am. J. Ind. Med. 40:87–91, 2001.

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