Understanding the Three Types of Silicosis
April 22, 2025
Artificial Stone Silicosis: A Fast-Moving and Deadly Disease
At Brayton Purcell LLP, we have long represented workers exposed to toxic materials. Today, one of the most urgent occupational health crises we’re seeing is a newer, accelerated form of silicosis allegedly tied to the fabrication of artificial stone countertops.
This condition—referred to as artificial stone silicosis—typically results from exposure to respirable crystalline silica released when cutting, polishing, or grinding artificial stone. Unlike granite or marble, artificial stone contains over 90% crystalline silica by weight, posing significantly higher risk to workers who handle these materials daily【Fazio JC, Viragh K, Houlroyd J, Gandhi SA, “A review of silicosis and other silica-related diseases in the engineered stone countertop processing industry,” J. Occup. Med. Toxicol. 2025; 20(1):9】.
Young Immigrant Workers Face the Greatest Risk
Unlike traditional silicosis, which may develop after decades of exposure, artificial stone silicosis is, on average, diagnosed after just 7 to 19 years of working in the industry, with some cases occurring with as little as a few months of exposure. Most diagnoses occur in workers between the ages of 33 and 55【Fazio et al., 2025, p.2】.
What’s especially troubling is who this disease affects: more than 95% of documented cases involve Spanish-speaking immigrants from Mexico or Central America. These workers are often uninsured, underinsured, or undocumented, which limits access to regular health screenings or early intervention【Fazio et al., 2025, p.2; Rose C, Heinzerling A, Patel K, et al., “Severe silicosis in engineered stone fabrication Workers - California, Colorado, Texas, and Washington, 2017–2019. MMWR Morb. Mortal. Wkly Rep. 2019; 68(38):813–818; Fazio JC, Gandhi SA, Flattery J, et al. Silicosis among immigrant engineered stone (Quartz) countertop fabrication workers in California,” JAMA Intern Med. 2023; 183(9):991–998】.
Without access to affordable medical care, many do not seek help until symptoms become severe. According to current data, nearly half of the artificial stone silicosis patients in California first presented at hospital emergency departments, not through primary care or workplace surveillance programs【Fazio et al., 2025, p.3】.
A Distinct and Aggressive Disease Pattern
Medical experts now view artificial stone silicosis as a unique and aggressive variant. Its rapid onset and short latency are reminiscent of past outbreaks, such as the silicosis epidemic among denim sandblasting workers in Turkey during the early 2000s【Fazio et al., 2025, p.2】.
Unlike chronic silicosis, which may remain stable for years, artificial stone silicosis progresses quickly. Many affected individuals suffer from irreversible lung damage and face the prospect of lung transplantation as their only life-saving option. (Id.)
Because of the novel characteristics of this disease, scientists are re-examining the underlying mechanisms and calling for urgent action. The case for both medical surveillance and legal accountability has never been clearer. (Id.)
How Brayton Purcell LLP Can Help
At Brayton Purcell LLP, we are committed to fighting for the rights of workers harmed by dangerous materials and negligent manufacturers. If you or someone you love has worked with artificial stone and developed silicosis, you may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost income, pain, distress, , and future care needs.
We offer free consultations and are proud to represent clients nationwide who are living with the effects of toxic occupational exposure.
📞 Call us at (800) 361-2417
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