Discover Healthy Solutions for Silicosis Prevention

Silicosis , a condition characterized by irreversible lung damage , is a health risk that has emerged , especially affecting workers who cut engineered stone , such as in kitchen remodels using artificial stone slabs for countertops . Gustavo Reyes - Gonzalez , a diagnosed case of Silicosis , recounted his symptoms , including a dry cough . His diagnosis came after being initially misdiagnosed with pneumonia , leading to multiple hospitalizations during the COVID pandemic . At the age of 30 , Gustavo required a lung transplant to survive , highlighting the severity of the condition.

Exposed to silica dust from cutting , sawing , or crushing stone countertops , particularly engineered stone that can contain high levels of silica , individuals are at risk of developing Silicosis . The California Department of Public Health reported 154 confirmed cases related to engineered stone , with at least 13 deaths as of June 10 , and Los Angeles County alone reporting 92 cases . Latino men are disproportionately affected by Silicosis , as they are more likely to work with synthetic stone in kitchen remodels , as noted by Dr. Jane Fazio , a pulmonary specialist at Olive View Medical Center UCLA.

Dr. Fazio 's study on silicosis revealed a rise in cases coinciding with the increasing popularity of engineered countertops over the past decade , leading to what she described as an " emerging health crisis . " With expectations of a continued increase in cases , efforts have been made by local authorities to address the issue . Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsay Horvath has spearheaded initiatives to allocate funds for education and regulatory enforcement to protect workers in the industry.

Temporary emergency standards from Cal OSHA now require water use and specific respirators for employees at countertop cutting businesses in California , with permanent rules pending approval . Despite the challenges faced , Gustavo , now dependent on multiple medications post lung transplant , and his wife , Wendy , remain resilient . Gustavo is currently engaged in a legal battle against more than 40 artificial stone manufacturers , citing negligence and product liability , while the companies involved dispute these claims in court documents.