Silicosis
Artificial stone silicosis: A UK case series
Silicosis due to artificial stone (AS) has emerged over the last decade as an increasing global issue. We report the first eight UK cases. All were men; median age was 34 years (range 27–56) and median stone dust exposure was 12.5 years (range 4–40) but in 4 cases was 4–8 years. One is deceased; two were referred for lung transplant assessment. All cases were dry cutting and polishing AS worktops with inadequate safety measures. Clinical features of silicosis can closely mimic sarcoidosis.
Concentrations of respirable crystalline silica and radon among tanzanite mining communities in Mererani, Tanzania
Background
Globally, the number of small-scale miners (SSM) is estimated to be more than 25 million, but it supports the livelihoods of around 100 million individuals. In Tanzania, the number of SSM has increased from an estimated 150,000 in 1987 to ~1.5 million in 2017. The miners are at a high risk of occupational-related health challenges. The study aimed to assess the concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (RCS) and radon among the tanzanite mining communities in Simanjiro District, Tanzania.
Confronting the growing epidemic of silicosis and tuberculosis among small-scale miners
An estimated 49·5 million small-scale miners worldwide are exposed to high concentrations of silica during their work. The substantial morbidity and mortality of silicosis and tuberculosis among workers exposed to such intensities have been documented. This Viewpoint raises concern at the failure to respond to a growing epidemic of lung disease (predominantly silicosis and tuberculosis) among small-scale miners.
Health effects of silica dust
Wed, 07 May 2025

We have worked with the Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM) to develop an information document on silicosis from artificial/engineered stone. The document aims to provide background information and practical strategies for occupational health surveillance.
Prevalence and determinants of evidence of silicosis and impaired lung function among small scale tanzanite miners and the peri-mining community in northern Tanzania
Limited data among miners in Tanzania suggests prevalence of silicosis, obstructive lung disease and restrictive lung disease to be around 1.6%, 1.9% and 8.8% respectively. Our study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with silicosis and impaired lung function among tanzanite mining community in northern Tanzania. We conducted a cross-sectional study, involving 330 miners and 330 peri-mining community members in Mererani mines.
Professor Weihong Chen talk on silicosis
Wed, 09 Apr 2025

We were delighted to welcome Professor Weihong Chen, a global expert in silicosis to speak at our departmental seminar this week on the "Exposure-response analysis of silica dust exposure and related adverse health effects using Chinese cohort data”. She gave a fabulous talk and showcased the rich datasets that she is involved with. We hope to collaborate with her in the future on research projects.
Relationship between cumulative silica exposure and silicosis: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis
Silicosis and silicotuberculosis among respiratory hospital admissions: A cross-sectional survey in northern Tanzania
Silicosis on BBC Morning Live
Tue, 13 May 2025

Dr Johanna Feary was recently featured on BBC Morning Live at Royal Brompton Hospital to talk about silicosis due to artificial stone, and advises those working with the material to get their lungs checked.
The feature also includes an interview with our patient Ryan, who spoke about how his silicosis diagnosis has affected his life. Nurse Tamanna Kabir was also featured performing spirometry with Ryan.
Watch the feature on BBC Morning Live online from 11mins and 22 secs.
Silicosis on Channel 4 News
Mon, 28 Oct 2024

Dr Johanna Feary, Honorary Consultant in Occupational Lung Disease and Asthma, and patient Marek Marzec were recently interviewed by Channel 4 News to discuss the dangers of silicosis due to artificial stone. The piece was aired on Monday 28th October 2024 and you can watch it online here.
If you have ever worked with silica, stone dust, artificial stone or quartz and you are worried about silicosis, please email us now.
We see patients with suspected silicosis in our Occupational Lung Disease NHS clinic.
