Silicosis

UPSC Reference Category: GS Paper II – Health | GS III – Occupational Health

What is Silicosis?

A chronic occupational lung disease caused by inhalation of respirable crystalline silica dust.

High-Risk Occupations

  • Mining
  • Construction
  • Stone cutting
  • Quarrying
  • Artificial-stone processing
  • Pottery
  • Granite work
  • Certain dental/laboratory activities.

Symptoms

  • Persistent cough
  • Breathlessness
  • Fatigue
  • Reduced lung function.

Pathogenesis

Silica particles are deposited in the lungs → inflammatory response → fibrosis.

Complications

Silicosis can increase susceptibility to:

  • Tuberculosis
  • Chronic respiratory disease
  • Lung impairment.

The disease has received renewed attention because of cases among engineered-stone workers exposed during cutting and polishing.

Key Pointer

Silica dust → lung fibrosis → occupational disease → silicosis

Prelims Trap: Silicosis is not an infectious disease.