This month consider these statistics:
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Lung disease is the number one work-related illness in the U.S. in terms of severity, frequency, and preventability.
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Occupational lung cancer is estimated to kill between 15,000 and 20,000 people each year.
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Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women in the U.S.
Occupational lung disease can be a killer. Many serious—even fatal—lung diseases can be traced to workplace hazards, including:
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Lung cancer—from inhaling carcinogenic chemicals, asbestos, and certain types of carbons
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Asbestosis—a progressive lung disease that results from inhaling asbestos fibers
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Silicosis—from inhaling silica dust found in stone, clay, and glass manufacturing as well as blasting operations
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Occupational asthma—from exposure to any number of vapors, gases, fumes, or dusts that can trigger an asthma attack
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Certain industry-specific diseases such as black lung (coal) and brown lung (textiles)
In addition, studies clearly show that smokers are more susceptible than non-smokers to developing occupational lung diseases. At any rate, make it a habit to always:
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Read the labels and MSDSs of hazardous substances to understand the dangers of inhaling the substance—and do it before using the substance.
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Avoid or minimize breathing in any sort of dust, vapors, fumes, or gases.
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Make sure that engineering controls, such as ventilation and exhaust systems, are in place and functioning properly.
Anyone who works in an area with high levels of hazardous substances in the air must wear an appropriate respirator and know how to use it properly.
Early detection is the key to treating lung diseases. The success of medical treatment for lung diseases usually depends on how early the disease is detected. So get a medical examination if you develop symptoms, such as a persistent cough, and if you have reason to believe the problem may be work-related.