Silicosis is caused by the human body inhaling dust at concentrations greater than 10% free silica over a long period of time. The development of silicosis is related to the size of the silica dust inhaled, the concentration of the dust (silica dust is dust with a concentration of >10% free silica), the duration of exposure, the presence of protective measures and other internal exposure doses, as well as individual susceptibility and the presence of underlying respiratory diseases.
The small particle size of free silica in dust can be inhaled into the lower respiratory tract, and the higher the silica content, the shorter the onset time and the more severe the disease. The longer a person is exposed to silica-containing dust, the greater the amount of dust deposited in their lungs and the greater the risk to themselves.
The combination of silicosis can lead to increased lung dysfunction if the patient has active tuberculosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, bronchiectasis and other underlying respiratory diseases.