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Silicosis is an increasing occupational health epidemic in California, causing illness, lung transplants, and deaths among relatively young Latino engineered stone workers. Flattery et al examined silicosis cases in workers linked to artificial stone (or quartz) countertop fabrication, further confirming this growing epidemic.
What is Silicosis?
Silicosis is an irreversible lung disease caused by the inhalation of crystalline silica. This study looked at artificial stone workers where exposure was caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust during work activities such as stone cutting and polishing. Flattery et al set out to identify silicosis severity, trends, at-risk groups, and surveillance effectiveness throughout California.
Key Findings from California's Silicosis Surveillance
By combining healthcare provider reports, hospital and public health data, and workplace investigations, the authors found that 243 out of 296 confirmed silicosis cases were linked to artificial stone exposure.
These cases were primarily:
- Younger
- Male
- Latino
- Los Angeles County residents
The surveillance also documented:
- 15 deaths attributed to silicosis
- 60 patients who required lung transplants
- 30 patients who received lung transplants
Non-artificial stone workers with confirmed silicosis were older (median 65 years compared to 46 years among artificial stone workers), with silica exposure from non-countertop fabrication industries (e.g. sandblasting), consistent with prior studies of traditional chronic occupational silicosis. This research highlighted the need for multi-source surveillance to fully capture the burden of silicosis.
Legal Help for Workers Diagnosed with Artificial Stone Silicosis
If you or someone you know has worked in the fabrication or installation of artificial stone or has been diagnosed with artificial stone silicosis, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Brayton Purcell LLP has represented toxic exposure victims for more than 40 years, including workers harmed by asbestos and silica.
Contact Brayton Purcell LLP to understand your legal options and get support from a team deeply experienced in occupational disease litigation.
Your health, your rights, and your future deserve protection.
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