6. Air Quality and Black Lung Disease
One of the most severe threats to coal miners’ health is prolonged exposure to coal dust, which can lead to black lung disease. This progressive respiratory illness impairs lung function and can be fatal, mirroring the dangers asbestos and silica workers also face. Despite improvements in ventilation and monitoring, black lung remains a persistent danger in the industry. For more on the health risks and prevention efforts, visit CDC: Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program.
