Skip to main content
U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Radiographic evidence of asbestos effects in American marine engineers

Journal Article · · JOM, J. Occup. Med.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6092759

Marine engineers undergoing routine annual chest roentgenography showed an unusual prevalence of pleural abnormalities including plaques suggestive of past asbestos exposure. A pilot survey, and a subsequent comprehensive study of the films of more than 5000 men, showed an overall prevalence of 12% with pleural abnormality (typical calcification or plaque, or diffuse thickening). Prevalence of films classifiable for pneumoconiotic small opacities was negligible, 1.2% in the pilot study. Prevalences of pleural abnormality were significantly higher among men with longer union membership, after controlling for age. Older merchant ships contain substantial amounts of asbestos-containing thermal insulation. Marine engineers often remove and reapply insulation, operations known to produce high airborne fiber concentrations. These roentgenographic survey results indicate significant past asbestos exposures of ships' engineering department personnel. 10 references, 1 table.

Research Organization:
Tulane Univ. School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA
OSTI ID:
6092759
Journal Information:
JOM, J. Occup. Med.; (United States), Journal Name: JOM, J. Occup. Med.; (United States) Vol. 26:4; ISSN JJOMD
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English