What is the primary concern associated with chronic exposure to silica dust?

Chronic exposure to silica dust primarily leads to silicosis, which is a progressive lung disease caused by the inhalation of fine silica particles. Silicosis is characterized by inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue, which occurs due to the body’s immune response to silica particles that cannot be easily expelled. This disease can manifest in different forms, including simple silicosis and complicated silicosis, with the latter leading to more severe respiratory impairment.

The condition often takes years to develop, making it a significant occupational hazard for workers in industries such as mining, construction, and stone cutting, where silica dust is prevalent. The long-term consequences of silicosis can include difficulty breathing, increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, and even lung cancer, highlighting the critical need for preventive measures in environments where silica exposure is a risk.