Cause-specific mortality among male textile workers in Rhode Island

Cause-specific mortality patterns among male textile workers in Rhode Island who died during the period 1968-1978 were examined using the proportionate mortality ratio (PMR) method. Textile worker decedents were identified by the usual occupation and industry statements on Rhode Island death certificates. A statistically significant PMR elevation was observed for nonmalignant respiratory disease (NMRD) among male textile workers (PMR = 110; Observed deaths [Obs] = 433; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 102-120). The PMRs for NMRD by specific textile occupation and by type of textile manufacturing generally exhibited the pattern expected for work-related mortality owing to textile dust exposure. High PMRs were observed among carding, lapping, and combing operatives, the decedents who probably had the highest dust exposure (PMR = 166; Obs = 24; CI = 114-243), and among operatives most likely to have worked in cotton manufacturing (PMR = 137; Obs = 47; CI = 104-179). This is the first report of excess mortality from NMRD among male textile workers in the United States. This finding is consistent with previous evidence that exposure to cotton dust can cause disabling chronic lung disease. Also noteworthy were statistically significant elevated PMRs for cancers of the rectum and esophagus among decedents who had been engaged in textile dyeing and finishing. Owing to the lack of direct information about occupational exposures and smoking habits of the decedents and uncertainties in classifying decedents by type of textile manufacturing, this investigation should be viewed as being exploratory in nature.