Byssinosis
Alternate Names : Cotton Bract Disease, Cotton Worker's Lung
DefinitionByssinosis is an occupational disease of the lungs caused by inhalation of cotton dust or dusts from other vegetable fibers such as flax, hemp, or sisal (see also Occupational asthma).
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Inhalation of the dust produced by industrial processing of textiles can cause byssinosis. An asthma-like condition results from exposure to dust in sensitive individuals.
Preventative measures in the U.S. have reduced the number of cases, but it remains common in developing countries. Smoking increases the risk for this disease. Repeated exposure to the offending substances may lead to chronic lung disease and shortness of breath or wheezing.
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