Diseases go undiagnosed in young people

Twenty percent of all miners diagnosed with a mine dust lung disease are under 55 years of age, and almost half of those young workers have worked in mining for less than 20 years. 

Despite this, only six percent of the former workers accessing RSHQ's free lung checks are younger than 55.

RSHQ's Director of the Health Surveillance Unit Evan Pengelly is urging younger people to take up the free lung health checks.

"Mine dust lung diseases are not just for the retired," said Mr Pengelly.

"We know young people can contract them too and so it's important all former workers, no matter their age, get tested after they've left mining and even if they've joined another industry."

Former Queensland mine or quarry workers can access a free lung check when the HEART5 truck rolls into Rockhampton from Wednesday 26 to Friday 28 February. 

HEART5 is a B-double truck equipped with state-of-the-art medical screening equipment that travels around regional and remote Queensland offering lung disease screening. 

Screening includes:

• Examination with an RSHQ-approved doctor
• Chest X-ray
• Lung function test by spirometry
• CT scan (if required)

In addition to the HEART5 mobile lung check service, RSHQ also sponsors a network of approved clinicians who perform testing at local clinics around the state. 

The free lung check program is available to former and retired mine and quarry workers in Queensland, who have at least 3 years' experience working in coal and mineral mines or at quarries that includes 6 months in a Queensland operation.

Eligible former workers should call 1300 445 715 to book whichever option is most convenient for them. Clinics are available all year round, and the HEART5 travels across the state.

ENDS

N.B. PRE-RECORDED GRABS, PHOTOS AND OVERLAY ARE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

Media contact

Amy McCann

0457 094 250

media@rshq.qld.gov.au