Dose-response relationship between lung function and chest imaging response to silica exposures in artificial stone manufacturing workers.

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

SUBMITTER: Chen CH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10908069 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature