Occupational Dust Exposure as a Determinant of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease Burden in Coal Miners: A Cross-Sectional MRI-Based Study

This study investigates the correlation between cumulative coal mine dust exposure and cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) burden in coal miners. A cross-sectional study of 500 coal miners underwent brain MRI. CSVD burden was assessed using neuroimaging markers. Occupational dust exposure was quantified as cumulative dust exposure (CDE). Logistic regression identified independent predictors. CSVD burden scores ranged from 0-3, with majority showing mild-moderate burden. Cumulative dust exposure significantly correlated with CSVD severity (r = 0.345, p < 0.001). CDE was independently associated with increased CSVD burden (OR = 1.027; p = 0.001). Multinomial regression revealed 6.2% increased odds of severe CSVD per unit CDE increase. Cumulative coal dust exposure is significantly associated with increased CSVD burden in coal miners, emphasizing the need for occupational dust control and vascular risk management.