September 3, 2004—Although deaths from certain occupational diseases caused by inhalation of mineral dusts have shown a significant decline over the last 30 years, the death rate for one such disease, asbestosis, has been rising, according to a NIOSH study, “Changing Patterns of Pneumoconiosis Mortality—United States, 1968-2000,” published in the July 23 issue of the CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
Even though the use of asbestos has declined substantially, leading to fewer workers significantly exposed, and despite regulation, new cases of asbestosis continue to appear as a result of exposures that occurred many years or decades ago. Continued vigilance and prevention efforts are necessary to assure that the progress made in eliminating this disease and other pneumoconiosis is maintained, the study reports.
