Occupational and Environmental Health: Recognizing and Preventing Disease and Injury - Multiple Choice Questions - Learn & Prevent

What disease is described as 'brown lung' and is associated with exposure to cotton, hemp, and flax processing?

1. Byssinosis

2. Silicosis

3. Berylliosis

4. Asbestosis

The correct answer is: Byssinosis

Modern treatment of cotton, hemp, and flax includes processes to minimize brown lung. Afterwards, most people who have byssinosis see a dramatic improvement in symptoms. Treatment may include oral steroids, bronchodilators, or other drugs that improve airflow through the lungs. A high percentage of people who develop brown lung are smokers and, therefore, may also need help to quit smoking to maximize the benefit of treatment. By comparison, silicosis is commonly linked to inhaling dust containing crystalline silica which is found in the mining and construction industries. Berylliosis is associated with exposure to beryllium, a lightweight metal used in industries such as aerospace and electronics. Asbestosis is caused by inhalation of asbestos fibers, typically found in construction materials. In comparison to byssinosis, all of these diseases are caused by different types of occupational exposures and have different