Quartz Countertops Linked to Deadly Lung Disease

luxe quartz countertops have surged in popularity in recent years,with an 800% rise in imports to the US alone,thanks to their durability,heat resistance and smooth,natural look.

But that beauty may come at a price to the workers who install them.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health issued a safety alert on Tuesday regarding silicosis, a progressive and incurable lung disease.

The state confirmed the first case of silicosis in a Massachusetts employee of the stone countertop fabrication industry.

Historically associated with mining and construction, the disease has become more prevalent among stone fabricators working with engineered stone, which contains substantially more silica than natural materials like granite or marble.

About 2.3 million US workers are exposed to silica in the workplace, according to the American Lung Association.

Silicosis is caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust, which is generated by cutting, polishing or grinding stones, especially high-silica engineered quartz.

Symptoms can include an irritating cough, mucus, shortness of breath, trouble breathing, fatigue, chest pain and leg swelling.

While there are treatments to manage symptoms, there’s no cure for silicosis. The disease can worsen as it progresses, possibly leading to lung cancer, tuberculosis and even death.