World-first trial takes aim at deadly silicosis
New hope is on the horizon for silicosis sufferers with Melbourne experts set to embark on a world-first trial designed to halt progression of the deadly lung disease.
Respiratory specialists at The Alfred are investigating whether the use of a targeted anti-inflammatory drug is the key to turning the tables on the debilitating illness.
Clinicians hope the anti-inflammatory treatment will suppress and ultimately stop inflammation in the lungs caused by inhaled silica particles, said Dr Ryan Hoy, lead respiratory clinician at The Alfred’s Occupational Respiratory Clinic.
"Silica dust can harm the lungs through multiple mechanisms," Dr Hoy said.
"It is directly toxic to lung tissue, and it also affects the cells responsible for clearing the dust, leading to inflammation followed by scarring of the lung tissue.
"In severe cases like progressive massive fibrosis, it can cause respiratory failure. Our goal is to prevent that."
Since 2019, more than 200 workers in Victoria—predominantly men in their 20s and 30s—have been diagnosed with silicosis, primarily as a result of exposure to silica dust generated during the manufacturing and installation of artificial stone kitchen benchtops.
The physical and psychosocial impacts of silicosis can be debilitating, with many patients unable to return to work due to shortness of breath, chest pain, extreme fatigue and persistent cough.
There are currently no approved treatments for silicosis, which is why the team at The Alfred is continuing the fight to find one.
“While steroid-based medications have been used to treat some of the symptoms of silicosis, this is not a viable option for patients given the side effects associated with its long-term use.”
The trial, which is in its early stages, has been made possible by a three-year funding commitment from Zaparas Lawyers.
Partner, Yianni Zaparas said as one of Victoria’s largest personal injury law firms Zaparas Lawyers was proud to be supporting local research, and the health and safety of the community.
“To contribute in any way to the improvement of the wellbeing of individuals suffering from silicosis around Australia and potentially the world is humbling,” Mr Zaparas said.
Community members seeking more information about the trial should email: AORC.Research@alfred.org.au
The Alfred’s Occupational Respiratory Clinic, which operates in partnership with WorkSafe Victoria, is an Australian-first clinic for workers exposed to silica or diagnosed with silicosis, a potentially deadly lung disease. It is the only service of its kind in a public hospital in Australia.
