Prevalência de silicose em trabalhadores de pedreiras na Zona Urbana II de Pedra Lavrada, PB nos últimos cinco anos - Prevalência de silicose em trabalhadores de pedreiras de Pedra Lavrada, PB nos últimos cinco anos.

Abstract

The silicosis is well known in various branches of economic activities such as mining, ceramic industry, metallurgical industry, quarries, heavy construction and blasting of sand. It is the oldest occupational disease and the leading cause of disability from respiratory diseases related to work. Due to the scarcity of epidemiological surveys on silicosis in Brazil and the near absence of such research in the Northeast, this study has been developed to raise statistical data on silicosis in the city of Pedra Lavrada, PB, espcieally in central area of the city. The study was based on data collection from the Municipal Department of Health. The results showed an average age of 46.5 years and a median time of exposure of 27 years. The silicosis is a serious public health problem that requires efforts to minimize risk through the work by multidisciplinary teams from government agencies and nongovernmental organizations, with active participation by the wokers themselves.