Demographic and Occupational Factors Associated With Silicosis in Workers in Gold Mines in Mongolia: A...

Understanding country-specific demographic and occupational factors is crucial in optimizing silica exposure control measures. This study investigated demographic and occupational factors associated with silicosis in workers in gold mines in Mongolia. This cross-sectional study was conducted in July 2024 at two private gold mining companies in Mongolia's western regional provinces. In total, 147 participants completed pre-administered questionnaires. Silicosis was diagnosed by chest X-rays, which were interpreted based on the International Labour Organization classification system. Associations between risk factors and silicosis were evaluated with logistic regression. The prevalence of silicosis was 16.3% (24 cases). Participants aged 30-39 years were at significantly higher risk than other age groups (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 5.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32-21.97). Those engaged in loading explosives and blasting had a 5.3-fold increased risk compared with those performing other tasks (95% CI 1.28-22.32). High cumulative exposure to dust, defined by longer working years and daily exposure hours, was strongly associated with silicosis (adjusted OR 5.52, 95% CI 1.19-25.52). Use of N95 masks did not demonstrate a statistically significant protective effect. Our findings highlight the need for enhanced silica exposure control measures. Possible measures include limiting working hours and cumulative exposure durations, and implementing engineering controls (e.g., ventilation and water suppression systems) to reduce airborne silica levels, especially for those engaged in loading explosives and blasting. Such interventions are important in reducing the burden of silicosis in the Mongolian gold mining industry.