Preventing the Continuing Tragedy of Silicosis

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Abstract
To the Editor The case reports of silicosis associated with occupational exposure to dust from engineered stone occurring primarily among young Latino immigrant men1 are tragic and shocking. Unfortunately, that these cases occurred was also predictable.2 While fabrication of engineered stone kitchen and bathroom countertops is a relatively new industry, the risks associated with exposure to airborne silica particles have been known for centuries, and reports of lung transplants among engineered stone workers were reported in the scientific literature in 2012.3 Disease prevention begins with anticipating that disease may occur, recognizing the conditions that permit occurrence, and responding by mitigating or eliminating the offending exposures. In this instance, as is too often the case, disease recognition was delayed, and preventive interventions are late and limited.