Free Black Lung Screenings Available to Coal Miners Through NIOSH Program

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is offering free, confidential black lung screenings to coal miners across several states, beginning in March. This program, now in its 21st year, aims to support the early detection of black lung disease, a preventable condition caused by prolonged exposure to coal mine dust.

What is Black Lung Disease?

Black lung disease, also known as coal workers’ pneumoconiosis, is a lung disease caused by inhaling respirable coal dust. NIOSH explains that it can lead to potentially disabling lung disease. Symptoms may include coughing and shortness of breath, and while medical treatment can’t cure the disease, early detection and prevention of further dust exposure are crucial for slowing its progression.

Who is Eligible for Screenings?

All coal miners are eligible to participate, including current and former miners, those working underground or on the surface, and those employed under contract.

What Do the Screenings Include?

The screenings, conducted in a mobile health unit, are approximately 30 minutes long and include:

• Work history and respiratory health questionnaire
• Chest x-ray
• Blood pressure screening
• Spirometry (breathing test)

2026 Screening Locations and Dates

Screenings will be held in the following states: West Virginia, Virginia, Alabama, Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana.

• West Virginia:
• Hampton Inn, Summersville: Tuesday, March 17, 9am – 4pm
• New River Health Assoc, Oak Hill: Wednesday, March 18 & Thursday, March 19, 9am – 5pm & 8am – 4pm
• Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center: Friday, March 20 & Saturday, March 21, 10am – 5pm
• Virginia:
• Stone Mountain Health Services, Vansant: Tuesday, April 7, 8am – 3pm
• Alabama:
• Bevill State Community College, Sumiton: Thursday, April… (date incomplete in source)

Additional screening locations and dates will be posted on the Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program webpage, as well as on Facebook and X/Twitter.

How to Schedule an Appointment

Appointments are recommended but walk-ins are welcome. To schedule an appointment, call 1-888-480-4042 or email cwhsp@cdc.gov.

Confidentiality

Screening results are confidential, as protected by law. Miners will receive their results approximately 12 weeks after the screening.

About NIOSH

NIOSH is the federal institute responsible for conducting research and providing recommendations to prevent work-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths.