Radiologists back ‘cancer-causing’ dust ban

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR) has welcomed a decision by state and federal governments to ban a ‘cancer-causing’ dust from next year.

Both tiers of governments announced earlier this week they will ban the use, supply, and manufacture of engineered stone that, when cut, releases fine silica dust, which can cause cancer and other serious respiratory diseases.

The college had previously contributed to the Australian Government’s National Dust Disease Taskforce where it called for a ban on engineered stone due to the dangers of crystalline silica.

RANZCR President Clin A/Professor Sanjay Jeganathan said: “We welcome the comprehensive ban on engineered stone and, as a result, cancer-causing silica dust.

“In our submission to the government taskforce, RANZCR warned that silica dust inhalation can lead to lung cancer and other serious respiratory diseases, including silicosis.

“It is essential that governments now take measures to support doctors in helping at-risk patients from long-term exposure to silica dust, such as construction workers.

“The federal government’s national occupational respiratory disease register is a step in the right direction and will help medical professionals diagnose patients more efficiently.

“Our college will work hand-in-hand with state and federal governments to get the right diagnosis and care for the victims of silica dust.”