Byssinosis in cotton textile mills.

Of 500 cotton textile workers studied for evidence of byssinosis, 63 were found to have the disease. The prevalence of byssinosis was highest in carders, but spinners, weavers, and winders also had the disease. Persons with byssinosis were found to represent a significant proportion of cotton textile workers who suffered from shortness of breath. The importance of better dust suppression in the cotton textile industry and the need for closer medical supervision of textile workers are emphasized.