Asbestosis, Pulmonary Symptoms, and Functional Impairment in Shipyard Workers: Legal and Medical Insights
Abstract
The study "Asbestosis, Pulmonary Symptoms, and Functional Impairment in Shipyard Workers" by Kilburn, Warshaw, and Thornton (1985), published in Chest, investigates the prevalence and functional effects of asbestosis among shipyard workers. A group of 339 male shipyard workers, recruited through shipyards, unions, and media, participated in the study. Of these, 288 workers with at least 20 years of shipyard employment and satisfactory chest x-ray findings were analyzed. Radiographic signs of asbestosis were present in 64% of participants, with 28% showing parenchymal disease, 37% pleural disease, and 35% both. Pleural calcification was observed in 9%, and only 8% had significant opacities (greater than 1/1) per International Labour Organization criteria. The study found that age and duration of asbestos exposure were closely linked to disease prevalence. Functional impairments were minimal to moderate, with smoking exacerbating lung function decline. The findings highlight the long-term health risks of asbestos exposure in shipyard workers.
Legal Relevance
This study provides critical evidence for asbestos-related legal claims by demonstrating the high prevalence of asbestosis and pleural disease among shipyard workers with prolonged asbestos exposure. It establishes a clear link between occupational history and disease development, supporting claims of employer negligence in failing to protect workers. The study’s findings counter common defense arguments by showing that even minimal functional impairment can result from asbestos exposure, particularly in non-smokers. Additionally, the data on smoking-specific impairments can help isolate asbestos as a primary cause of disease in non-smoking plaintiffs.
Occupation Groups at Risk
The study underscores the heightened risk faced by shipyard workers, a group frequently exposed to asbestos during ship construction, repair, and insulation work. Other high-risk occupations include:
Current Medical Understanding
The study aligns with current knowledge that asbestos exposure leads to progressive diseases like asbestosis and pleural abnormalities. It reinforces the understanding that even minimal radiographic changes can indicate significant exposure and risk. The findings also highlight the synergistic effects of smoking and asbestos exposure, which remain a critical focus in modern occupational health research.
Citation
Kilburn, K. H., Warshaw, R., & Thornton, J. C. (1985). Asbestosis, pulmonary symptoms, and functional impairment in shipyard workers. Chest, 88(2), 254-259. https://doi.org/10.1378/chest.88.2.254
National Library of Medicine Link
For further details, access the study on the National Library of Medicine’s website: Asbestosis, Pulmonary Symptoms, and Functional Impairment in Shipyard Workers.
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