California workers face rising silicosis risk from quartz countertops

A report published in NEJM Evidence has identified a significant rise in silicosis cases among workers in California who fabricate engineered-stone countertops. The disease, caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust during the cutting and polishing of materials often marketed as quartz, leads to irreversible lung scarring.

Data covering the period from January 2019 through June 2024 indicates that 592 workers have been diagnosed with the condition. The demographic impact is heavily concentrated among men, with 591 of the diagnosed workers being male, and 580 being Latino. Among those who died, the median age was 52. The report notes that 138 workers were referred for lung transplants, with 65 successfully receiving them.

Engineered stone can contain more than 90 percent crystalline silica, a much higher concentration than many natural stones. Because the disease can progress over many years, researchers warn that the current number of confirmed cases likely underrepresents the true scale of the health crisis in the stone component and kitchen countertop industry.