Coniosis

/koʊniˈoʊsɪs/ noun

Definition

A disease of the lungs caused by inhaling dust over long periods, common in miners and factory workers.

Etymology

From Greek 'konios' (dust) + '-osis' (disease condition). Medical term coined in the 19th century to describe occupational lung diseases.

Kelly Says

Coniosis killed hundreds of thousands of miners and factory workers throughout history—names like 'silicosis' and 'anthracosis' are specific types of coniosis, and studying this disease literally built the foundation of occupational health and safety.

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