Radiographic Evidence of Asbestos Disease in Chinese Factory Workers

In three asbestos-utilizing factories in the People’s Republic of China, two use chrysotile exclusively while one uses small amounts of crocidolite. Among the workers—the majority of whom are women—all the traditional asbestos-related diseases are found, including fibrosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. This study reports on the extent of radiographic changes seen in these three factories. Difficulties and shortcomings of conducting such research in China are reviewed.