Work

Assessment of pneumoconiosis by dusty job type among underground coal miners participating in the Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program,1991–2024

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Exposure to respirable coal mine dust causes coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP). Despite regulatory efforts, progressive massive fibrosis (PMF), the most severe form of pneumoconiosis persists, particularly in Central Appalachia. This study evaluated pneumoconiosis prevalence among underground coal miners by occupation during 1991-2024. Methods: The study analyzed data from 30,319 underground miners in the Coal Workers Health Surveillance Program (CWHSP) from 1991-2024. Pneumoconiosis was identified from chest radiographs using standardized classifications. Disease prevalence was compared across mining occupations and geographic regions, with adjustment for underground mining tenure. Results: Continuous miner operators (CMOs) and roof bolters experienced the highest prevalence of disease. Compared with miners who never held these occupations, adjusted prevalence of CWP was higher among CMOs (PR = 1.8; 95% CI: 1.6-2.0) and roof bolters (PR = 1.4; 95% CI: 1.3-1.6). PMF prevalence was also elevated among CMOs (PR = 3.0; 95% CI: 2.3-4.0) and roof bolters (PR = 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1-1.9). CWP prevalence was 8.4% in Central Appalachia versus 1.5% in the rest of U. S., while PMF prevalence was 1.3% versus 0.1%. After adjustment for tenure, Central Appalachian miners had 3.9 times the prevalence of CWP (95% CI: 3.4-4.5) and 10 times the prevalence of PMF (95% CI: 5.7-17.5). Discussion: CMOs and roof bolters experienced the highest prevalence of pneumoconiosis, consistent with their classification as MSHA-designated "dusty" occupations. Markedly higher disease prevalence across all occupations in Central Appalachia indicates persistent hazardous dust exposures and underscores the need for continued prevention and surveillance efforts.

Source: Frontiers in Public Health

DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1970741

Authors: Nirmala T. Myers, David J. Blackley, Laura Reynolds, A. Scott Laney, Noemi B. Hall

Institutions: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Language: English

Topic: Occupational and environmental lung diseases

Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801