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Clinical findings among hard metal workers
A Fischbein1, J C Luo, S J Solomon
1Division of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, City University of New York, New York 10029.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Occupational exposure in the cemented tungsten carbide industry can cause hard metal disease, a serious lung condition. This study highlights the ongoing need for exposure controls to protect workers' respiratory health.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Pulmonology
- Toxicology
Background:
- A pulmonary disorder,
- hard metal disease
- has been linked to occupational exposures in the cemented tungsten carbide industry since 1940.
- It presents with diverse clinical manifestations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical findings in a cohort of 41 hard metal workers.
- To assess the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, radiographic abnormalities, and pulmonary function impairments.
- To investigate potential cardiopulmonary effects.
Main Methods:
- Clinical assessment of 41 hard metal workers.
- Evaluation of respiratory symptoms.
- Chest radiography and pulmonary function testing, including diffusing capacity and exercise right ventricular ejection fraction.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of respiratory symptoms observed.
- Thirty-one percent of workers showed interstitial lung disease on chest radiographs.
- Twenty-seven percent exhibited impaired diffusing capacity and restrictive lung function patterns.
- Cardiopulmonary effects were indicated by associations between diffusing capacity, radiographic findings, and exercise response.
Conclusions:
- Hard metal disease remains a significant occupational health concern in the cemented tungsten carbide industry.
- Findings underscore the persistent need for stringent control of occupational exposures.
- Early detection and prevention strategies are crucial to mitigate the long-term effects of hard metal exposure.