"Silicosis: Deadly Lung Disease Strikes Countertop Workers"
Workers cutting countertops are at risk of developing silicosis, a severe and incurable lung disease caused by breathing in silica dust. Latino immigrants in California's Pacoima region are particularly vulnerable. Symptoms include cough, mucus build-up, shortness of breath, bronchitis-like symptoms, weakness, fatigue, fever, night sweats, leg swelling, and bluish lips. Silicosis can lead to tuberculosis, lung cancer, COPD, and kidney disease. Treatment is available, but prevention is crucial. A study found that almost 20% of California workers with silicosis had died, with misdiagnosis and delays in diagnosis common. Workers like Leobardo Segura Meza fear the lack of a cure and the potential shortage of lungs for transplantation as more workers become ill.
