Assessment of the Respiratory Health of Working US Coal Miners Since 2014—Radiography, Spirometry, and Symptom Assessments

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study is to summarize Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program findings since 2014, focusing on prevalence of radiographic pneumoconiosis and abnormal spirometry by region. Methods: Analysis included the most recent Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program encounter for working miners during October 1, 2014–June 30, 2022. Central Appalachia consists of Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia. Results: Pneumoconiosis prevalence was highest among underground miners, with 318 (6.2%) having radiographic evidence of disease. Central Appalachian miners were more likely to have evidence of pneumoconiosis (relative risk = 4.1 [3.4—5.0]) and abnormal spirometry (relative risk = 1.4 [1.2—1.6]) compared with all others. Conclusions: Central Appalachia is a hotspot for pneumoconiosis, as well as for other indicators of respiratory impairment in coal miners. Outreach for occupational respiratory health surveillance should focus on those areas most heavily affected, ensuring that miners are not hindered by perceived or actual barriers to this secondary intervention.