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

• DOI: 10.1186/s12940-024-01067-1
• Publication Date: 2024-03-02T02:51:01Z
• Authors: Chi-Hsien Chen; Perng-Jy Tsai; Wen-Wen Chang; Cheng-Yao Chen; Chih-Yong Chen; Deborah Yates; Yue Leon Guo
• Keywords: Silicosis; DLCO; Occupational lung disease; Chest radiograph

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 impact of on lung function chest imaging in stone manufacturing workers. Methods Questionnaire spirometry assessments were administered workers two plants. A high-exposure subset underwent further evaluation, including CT DLco. Weighting factors, assigned as proxies exposure, based work tasks. Individual cumulative exposures estimated using area concentration measurements time spent specific areas. Exposure-response associations analyzed linear logistic regression models. Results Among 65 participants, mean was 3.61 mg/m 3 -year (range 0.0001 44.4). Each 1 increase associated with 0.46% reduction FVC, 0.45% FEV1, increased abnormality risk (aOR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.03–1.56). factors correlated (Spearman correlation 0.59, p < 0.0001), weighted tenure abnormalities 1.04, 1.01–1.09). Of 37 workers, 19 CT, 12 (63%) showing abnormal opacities. Combining respiratory symptoms, function, X-ray achieved 91.7% sensitivity 75% specificity predicting abnormalities. Conclusion Lung occur commonly For individuals, health screening could prompt examination facilitate early silicosis detection.