In the last year the total number of mine dust lung disease cases for current and former workers diagnosed since 1984 has risen to 400.
The majority of new cases are former workers who have received a free lung health check from their local, RSHQ-approved doctor, or onboard Heart of Australia’s HEART 5 Mobile Health Unit.
The HEART 5 Mobile Health Unit was launched in February last year and was a commitment of the Quensland Government.
Minister for Resources, Scott Stewart said more than 700 former workers who otherwise may not have gotten tested, have accessed a free lung health check through the program run by RSHQ.
“Since 2016, more than 150,000 chest X-rays have been completed for current and former workers.
“I also want to thank the Mine Dust Victims Group for all the work they do to encourage people to get tested as well as their continued advocacy.”
Executive Director, Occupational Health, RSHQ, Dean Barr said mine dust lung diseases can develop many years after workers retire from the industry, so ongoing checks are important.
“The checks include chest X-ray and spirometry, and when required, other follow-up investigations such as high-resolution CT scans.
“Our partnership with Heart of Australia to provide mobile lung checks has ensured the program delivers world class testing, while being even more accessible to regional and remote Queensland.”
Former miner Mr Steve Carson, who has been diagnosed with silicosis said: “I had the attitude ‘it’s never going to happen to me’ – but it did and I’m grateful that they found it.
“The important part is to find out because sometimes there’s things they can do if you’re in the early stages, but most importantly you know and can make informed decisions about what to do next.
“If you find out you’ve got a mine dust lung disease, don’t give up, don’t throw in the towel because there’s people out there that will help you.”
The HEART 5 Mobile Health Unit is visiting Ipswich, Moranbah, The Gemfields and Emerald in August.
Former workers can book a free lung health check on the HEART 5, or at a local authorised doctor by contacting the Mine Dust Health Support Service on 1300 445 715.
