Doctors writing in Thorax, the journal of the British Thoracic Society, warn of a future ‘epidemic’ and call for action following first UK cases of silicosis from cutting artificial stone

The article is by a team of doctors associated with the first 8 cases of silicosis – an irreversible lung disease – in UK workers who inhaled dust from cutting artificial stone (a composite material made from crushed stone bound by adhesive).

The use of artificial stone for kitchen worktops has increased in recent years. And this is leading to more workers involved in supply chains and installation being exposed to silica dust when the artificial stone is cut.

With the rapid growth in the use of artificial stone in the UK, the doctors say: “A concerted effort is required in the UK to prevent the epidemic seen in other countries.”