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Silica and progressive systemic sclerosis (scleroderma): evidence for workers' compensation policy
1Industrial Disease Standards Panel, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Occupational exposure to crystalline silica is linked to progressive systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) in male miners. The Industrial Disease Standards Panel (IDSP) found a probable connection, informing occupational disease policy.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Rheumatology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Progressive systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) cases identified in male miners.
- A provincial parliament member requested an evaluation of occupational links.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the evidence for an occupational connection between crystalline silica exposure and scleroderma.
- To summarize evidence supporting a causal relationship.
Main Methods:
- Review of case-control studies spanning four decades and three continents.
- Application of Sir Austin Bradford Hill's criteria for causality.
Main Results:
- A clear-cut relationship identified between occupational silica exposure and scleroderma.
- The Industrial Disease Standards Panel (IDSP) concluded a probable connection.
Conclusions:
- Evidence supports a probable occupational link between crystalline silica exposure and scleroderma in miners.
- Highlights challenges in occupational disease policy when scientific certainty is limited.
