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Overview

Byssinosis (brown lung disease) is a chronic condition involving obstruction of the small airways, which severely impairs lung function. It is caused by occupational inhalation of dusts from hemp, flax, and cotton. Between 1979 and 2002, byssinosis caused approximately 140 deaths. However, more than 35,000 textile workers have been disabled by byssinosis. (ALA USA)

External Links

• American Lung Association

References

• U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Cotton Dust. Fact Sheet No. OSHA 95-23, 1995.