Question

Pneumoconiosis is caused due to inhalation of which one of the following?

• A. Silica
• B. NO\(_x\)
• C. Lead
• D. Cadmium

Hint:

All pneumoconiosis diseases are linked to inhalation of inorganic mineral dusts.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding pneumoconiosis.
Pneumoconiosis is a group of occupational lung diseases caused by long-term inhalation of mineral dust particles.
Step 2: Common causative agents.
Silica dust causes silicosis, coal dust causes coal workers’ pneumoconiosis, and asbestos causes asbestosis.
Step 3: Analyzing the options.
(A) Correct, inhalation of silica dust leads to silicosis, a type of pneumoconiosis.
(B) Incorrect, NO\(_x\) causes respiratory irritation but not pneumoconiosis.
(C) Incorrect, lead causes systemic toxicity, not lung fibrosis.
(D) Incorrect, cadmium affects kidneys and bones primarily.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Pneumoconiosis is caused due to inhalation of silica dust.