#pneumoconioses

The silica-exposed workers without a diagnosis of pneumoconiosis had a higher RA hospitalization rate than the general population. Our analysis re-confirms the link between silica exposure and RA, while also suggesting that the severity of RA is increased by silica. Since the SAR did not increase with the duration of silica exposure, further studies with longer follow-up of silica-exposed workers are needed.

CTD is highly prevalent in patients with pneumoconiosis, especially in patients of asbestosis, and silicosis/coal mine workers’ pneumoconiosis. Female sex and later stages of pneumoconiosis are associated with an increased risk of combined with CTD.