The simple form is not usually disabling, but the complicated form usually does lead to disability. The risk of developing the disease is related to the duration and extent of exposure to the coal dust. Most affected workers are over the age of 50. The incidence is 6 out of 100,000 people. Smoking does not increase the prevalence of pneumoconiosis, but, because it can damage lung function, it may exacerbate the symptoms of the disease.
Pneumoconiosis is detected by chest X-rays and by testing the function of the lungs.
There is no specific treatment for this disorder other than treatment of complications. Avoidance of further exposure to coal dust is recommended. The way to prevent the disease is to minimise the amount of coal dust breathed in by mine workers. This can be done by using protective masks, and by strictly controlling maximum permitted dust levels in occupational settings. Emphysema is a condition in which there is over-inflation of structures in the lungs known as alveoli or air sacs.