A recent report by the National Institute for Occupational Health (NIOH) has shed light on the ongoing impact of occupational lung diseases among South African miners, based on autopsy surveillance data collected in 2021.

The study, conducted under the Occupational Diseases in Mines and Works Act (ODMWA) of 1973, highlights the prevalence and trends of lung-related illnesses in the mining sector, with implications for both healthcare policy and compensation frameworks.

Findings of the surveillance report

The study found that miners continue to suffer from a range of respiratory illnesses, including silicosis, coal workers’ pneumoconiosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. Additionally, asbestos-related diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma remain significant concerns.

Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), historically prevalent in the mining industry, was also a key finding in the autopsies examined.

Since 1975, the NIOH has maintained the Pathology Automation System (PATHAUT) database, which records demographic data, clinical causes of death, and occupational histories of miners. The 2021 report indicates that while there has been a decline in the number of cases over the years, the diseases still pose a major threat to miners’ health and safety.

A call for awareness and policy action

Lead author Thembi Mashele emphasised the importance of raising awareness about occupational lung diseases and strengthening surveillance measures. She noted that autopsies performed by the NIOH’s Pathology Division play a crucial role in identifying compensable diseases, enabling affected miners and their families to receive financial support from the government.

“The study aims to highlight the long-term impact of mining-related lung diseases and encourage proactive measures to protect workers,” Mashele said. “It is essential that we continue to monitor these trends, improve workplace safety regulations, and enhance healthcare access for miners.”

A legacy of occupational disease surveillance

The surveillance of occupational respiratory diseases in South African miners dates back to 1911, when the Miners’ Phthisis Allowances Act was first introduced. Since then, the process has evolved, culminating in the establishment of PATHAUT in 1975.

The NIOH’s annual surveillance reports serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, researchers, and healthcare professionals working to combat the burden of lung diseases in the mining sector.

Looking ahead

The NIOH urged mining companies, healthcare providers, and policymakers to use the latest findings to reinforce health and safety regulations in the industry. By doing so, they hope to prevent new cases of occupational lung diseases and ensure that affected workers receive the care and compensation they deserve.

For more details, the full surveillance report is available on the Public Health Bulletin of South Africa website at www.phbsa.ac.za.

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