More about the risks of RCS: Silicosis and Lung Cancer

As we already learned, the smallest particles of RCS (the respirable fraction) can cause irritation to cells deep in the lungs.

Over time, these particles can build up, damaging the lungs and making them less effective. The main health effect is an occupational disease known as Silicosis, which can cause breathing difficulties.

There are different stages of silicosis, each varying in severity – from ‘simple silicosis’ to ‘progressive massive fibrosis (PMF)’. The x-ray above shows what PMF does to the lungs. The white, cloudy areas at the top of the picture on the right are parts of the lungs which are no longer working efficiently.

Epidemiological studies show that the incidence of lung cancer is increased especially in workers with silicosis¹. RCS generated by a work process has been included within the scope of EU health and safety legislation, aiming to protect workers from exposure to carcinogens at work.

As you might expect, people who smoke are at higher risk of developing health problems associated with RCS.

The first step in reducing the risk of cancer, therefore, must be the prevention of silicosis. Silicosis is completely preventable with the implementation of good practices at work! We’ll learn how in the following sections.

1) “Recommendation from the Scientific Committe on Occupational Exposure Limits for Silica, Crystalline (respirable dust); SCOEL/SUM/94; November 2003”, p. 2