Screening Strategy for Early Diagnosis of Silicosis in At-Risk Populations in Oklahoma

Screening Strategy for Early Diagnosis of Silicosis in At-Risk Populations in Oklahoma

Silicosis, a preventable yet irreversible occupational lung disease, has an insidious onset with a latency period for diagnosis extending beyond 10 years from the initial exposure. The central hypothesis of this study is that silicosis cases may currently be going undetected. The long-term goal of this research is to determine the current prevalence and forecast the future prevalence of silicosis and other pneumoconiosis among working populations in Oklahoma and to assist the public health and the healthcare system in planning for a potential resurgence of silicosis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male 30 years or older
• Past or present employment in dusty environment, exposed to dust at work
• Ability to consent and answer the questionnaire

Exclusion Criteria:

• Female
• Never exposed to dusty environment or never exposed to dust at work
• Inability to consent and answer the questionnaire
• Age 29 years or younger