Causes
Silicosis is an occupational lung disease. It is caused by the inhalation of:
- Tiny particles of silicon dioxide in the form of crystalline “free” silica (usually quartz)
- Silicates, minerals containing silicon dioxide bound to other elements, such as talc (less common)
People at risk are:
- Workers who move or blast rock and sand (miners, quarry workers, stonecutters)
- Those who use silica-containing rock or sand abrasives (sand blasters; glass makers; foundry, gemstone, and ceramic workers; potters
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Coal miners
Factors that increase the chances of acquiring silicosis are:
- Duration and intensity of exposure
- Form of silicon (risk is high in exposure to crystalline form)
- Surface characteristics (risk is high in exposure to uncoated form)
- Exposure immediately after fracturing dust poses greater risk than delayed exposure
