Black lung disease is too familiar to many West Virginia families. When speaking of black lung disease, it is useful to remember that it is actually a common name used to describe any lung disease that results from inhaling coal dust. It is deceptive in that the sufferer may not be aware that he has any symptoms for many years. Repeated exposure, inhalation, and the accumulation of coal dust causes coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP). The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has recently proposed new regulations to curb the incidence of black lung disease in response to the findings of recent health studies among miners. The studies, conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and MSHA in 2005, 2006 and 2007, examined the chest x-rays of coal miners. The results found an increase in the incidence of CWP. In addition, the studies found that even younger coal miners are experiencing advanced and debilitating symptoms. In response to these findings, MSHA has proposed additional regulations to minimize dust in coal mines as part of a comprehensive plan to reduce black lung disease. Black lung disease is a dreaded irreversible disease. You should not have to bear the cost for the injuries you sustained during the course of doing your job. A competent West Virginia personal injury attorney will help you recover compensation to pay for your medical bills and compensate you for the loss of quality of life. Please call one of the experienced attorneys at Calwell Luce diTrapano PLLC at 304-400-6558 or contact us online to schedule your appointment.