The influence of fatigue on work capacity and quality of life among miners with silicosis.

Introduction: Factors associated with the mining environment can contribute to work accidents and reduced caution at work, which may affect the quality of life and work capacity of miners.

Objectives: To evaluate if fatigue influences quality of life and work capacity in miners with silicosis.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the Northern Region of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

Respiratory health and silicosis in artisanal mine workers in southern Brazil.

Background: Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) are an important source of employment in southern Brazil. Mining workers are frequently exposed to unhealthy work conditions which increase the risk of occupational diseases. In this study, we assessed the association of sociodemographic factors and the occupational history of artisanal mining workers with the risk of adverse respiratory outcomes.

Predictors of health-related quality of life among semi-precious stone mineworkers exposed to silica dust.

Objective: The study aimed to comparatively evaluate HRQOL in miners of semi-precious stones with and without silicosis, and determine the associated factors, as well as the performance of two different questionnaires in measuring HRQOL.

Methods: In a cross-sectional study of 348 male miners (129 with silicosis) who underwent an interview and spirometry, HRQOL was assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire and the Saint George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ).

Results: Miners with silicosis were older, had less schooling, worked more hours daily, and had longer exposure to silica.

Lung function and functional exercise capacity in underground semi-precious stone mineworkers.

Background: Semi-precious stone mining may cause occupational lung disease. The impact of inhaling silica on workers' exercise capacity has only been partially studied.

Objectives: To study lung function, exercise capacity, and identify factors associated with functional impairment.

Silicosis prevalence and risk factors in semi-precious stone mining in Brazil.

Background: Underground mining generates large amounts of dust and exposes workers to silica. This study aims to determine the prevalence and predictor factors for the development of silicosis among semi-precious-stone mineworkers in southern Brazil working in a self-administered cooperative.

Methods: In a cross-sectional study of 348 current workers and retirees, demographic data, medical, and occupational history were collected through an interview performed by a nurse and medical record review.