International Nurses Association

Despite the fact that coal mines produce our country's coal, the conditions and safety for the workers is often deplorable. Personal events are recounted by Susan, a retired nurse.   Black Lung Disease Black lung disease is actually a common name for any lung disease that develops from inhaling coal dust. The name comes from the fact that those with the disease have lungs that look black instead of pink. The technical name for this condition is coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP). There are two types, simple CWP and complicated CWP, which involves progressive massive fibrosis.    The inhalation and accumulation of coal dust into the lungs increases the risk of developing chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The cause of this condition comes from working in a coal mine, or other coal industries. The dust in the lungs may appear and get worse during the exposure to the dust or after the exposure has ceased. Related: Nursing In