Development of rapid prediction model for silicosis risk among stone carvers in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand

Exposure to silica dust presents a risk for the development of lung disease for stone carvers in Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand. This study aimed to develop a rapid prediction model for the assessment of silicosis risk among 243 stone carvers who were exposed to silica at work from August and October 2023 in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. Demographic characteristics collected in questionnaires were work information; basic health information; health behavior data, including prevention and control of silicosis; knowledge; attitude; and practices for surveillance, prevention, and control of silicosis. Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) exposures were measured by conducting personal air sampling. Risk scores of silicosis were calculated and a rapid prediction model for assessment of silicosis risk among stone carvers was determined. It was found that 11 variables were significantly associated with silicosis risk scores (p < 0.05). However, it was demonstrated that only four significant influential variables, including the concentration of silica dust exposure (mg/m³), working hours per day, underlying diseases, and separation of residence from a workplace were acceptable for conducting a silicosis risk assessment using multiple regression analysis (R² = 0.675). This study indicated that a prediction model can be used for the assessment of silicosis risk among stone carvers. Therefore, the use of this prediction model is recommended to evaluate the risk associated with exposure to RCS of stone carvers in Nakhon Ratchasima province, Thailand due to its simplicity, accuracy, and time-saving attributes.