"WASHINGTON – Coal miners in Kentucky and other parts of Appalachia are contracting serious cases of black lung disease at rates not seen since the early 1970s — just after preventive regulations were enacted, according to a study published Monday.

Only 15 years ago, progressive massive fibrosis — an advanced form of black lung for which there is no cure — was virtually eradicated, health researchers say. But now, the prevalence of the disease in Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia is at levels not seen in 40 years.

"Each of these cases is a tragedy and represents a failure among all those responsible for preventing this severe disease," wrote researchers for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health in the latest issue of the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine."

James R. Carroll reports for the Louisville Courier-Journal September 15, 2014. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Study: Deadliest Form of Black Lung Disease Is at 40-Year High in Eastern Kentucky, Nearby Areas" (Lexington Herald-Leader) [3]

"New Data Shows Resurgence of Most Severe Form of Black Lung Disease in Appalachia" (West Virginia Public Broadcasting) [4]

"Study Says Advanced Form of Black Lung at Historically High Levels" (Charleston Daily Mail) [5]