What are occupational lung diseases? Repeated and long-term
exposure to certain irritants on the job can lead to an array of
lung diseases that may have lasting effects, even after exposure
ceases. Certain occupations, because of the nature of their
location, work, and environment, are more at risk for
occupational lung diseases than others. Contrary to a popular
misconception, coal miners are not the only ones at risk for
occupational lung diseases. For instance, working in a car
garage or textile factory can expose a person to hazardous
chemicals, dusts, and fibers that may lead to a lifetime of lung
problems if not properly diagnosed and treated. Consider these
statistics from the American Lung Association: - Occupational
lung diseases are the number one cause of work-related illness.
- Most occupational lung diseases are caused by repeated, long-
term exposure, but even a severe, single exposure to a hazardous
agent can damage the lungs. - Occupational lung diseases are
preventable. - Smoking can increase