Pneumoconiosis/Silicosis: What you need to know
By Lungscreen Australia
Pneumoconiosis and silicosis are two of the most common occupational lung diseases. Pneumoconiosis is a general term used to describe a group of lung diseases that are caused by the inhalation of dust particles, while silicosis specifically refers to the lung disease caused by exposure to silica dust. The most common form of pneumoconiosis is coal workers' pneumoconiosis, or black lung disease, which is caused by inhaling coal dust. Symptoms of pneumoconiosis include coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Pneumoconiosis can lead to serious health problems, including respiratory failure and death.