Implementation and Cost Analysis of a Novel Silicosis Case-Finding Program For Mine Workers in Rural Rwanda

Abstract

A novel case-finding program for silicosis was developed and implemented for mine workers working in semi-industrial mines that included education about causes and protection, symptom screening for silicosis and TB, chest X-ray, spirometry, and screening for hypertension and diabetes.n Of the 1,032 mine workers enrolled in the program, 95 (9.2%) had radiographic evidence of silicosis, 221 (21.6%) screened positive for hypertension, and 12 (1.1%) had elevated glucose readings.n Partnership between private employers, the Ministry of Health, and nongovernmental organizations is essential for occupational lung disease case-finding and linkage to care.