Photo by K.M. Cannon . At issue for former Nevada Test Site workers are chest X-rays that show shadows on the lungs suggesting scarring from inhaling silica particles.
Doctors differ on the point at which an X-ray shows conclusive evidence of silicosis.
Oliver consults with labor groups and trial attorneys and has testified in court on behalf of victims seeking workers compensation. Dr. William Graham disagrees. He is a pulmonary physician and professor emeritus of medicine at the University of Vermont who has researched silicosis among granite workers. He has testified on behalf of companies defending themselves against silicosis lawsuits. At that reading, he said doctors should examine whether smoking or other factors might be involved.