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Silicosis is a lung disease caused by the inhalation of dust or other particles containing crystalline silica. Silicosis has been around for centuries, with the first cases reported amongst stonecutters in the early 17000s. Due to advances in the mining industry, the number of cases reported in the United States has dropped dramatically over the last decades. Most recent studies estimate only 2 cass per million Americans are now diagnosed annually. |
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Typically, silicosis affects men, reflecting the association of the disease with specific occupations. The longer the exposure, the greater the likelihood of contracting the disease. The most popular occupations posing high risk:
- Sandblasting
- Mining
- Quarrying
- Drilling
- Stone crushing
- Cement manufacturing
- Pottery polishing
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Intense exposure to dust containing silica may result in disease in a year or less, but it usually takes at least 10 or 15 years of exposure before symptoms develop. Silicosis has become less common since the Occupational Safety and Health Administration instituted regulations requiring the use of protective equipment, limiting the amount of silica dust inhaled. Most cases involving silicosis are from injuries incurred before the adoption of OSHA standards, though there are new cases being filed each year.
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If you or a family member has been a victim of silicosis it is best to contact a lawyer specializing in silicosis cases immediately to find out your legal rights. A lawyer with silicosis expertise can asses your case to find out whether or not it is actionable. To expedite the process of filing a lawsuit, it is advisable to present your lawyer with as much information about your situation as possible. Choose from a lawyer by state at left to begin your search. Simply fill out a form for a lawyer in your area, and a qualified professional will contact you shortly.
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