Health risks of silicosis and tuberculosis in Tanzanian gemstone miners
Silicosis and Silicotuberculosis Among Small Scale Gemstone Miners in Northern Tanzania: SilicoTB
This study looks at the health risks of silicosis and tuberculosis in Tanzanian gemstone miners to see how these conditions affect their breathing and overall health over time.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 1400 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Male |
| Sponsor | National Heart and Lung Institute Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Sanya Juu, Kilimanjaro) |
| Trial ID | NCT06403800 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study focuses on the health risks faced by artisanal tanzanite miners in Northern Tanzania, particularly the progression of silicosis and the prevalence of tuberculosis (TB). The study will establish a prospective cohort of 410 miners to monitor symptoms and respiratory health over time, while also assessing TB transmission patterns within the mining community. By documenting these health issues, the study aims to highlight the public health implications of mining practices and the economic impact on miners. The research will provide valuable data to inform health interventions and policies for this vulnerable population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are male artisanal tanzanite miners aged over 18 with less than 10 years of mining exposure.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently involved in mining or those planning to relocate in the next 18 months may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved health outcomes and targeted interventions for miners suffering from silicosis and tuberculosis.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown significant health risks associated with silicosis and tuberculosis in similar artisanal mining populations, indicating that this approach is grounded in established findings.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
For the cross-sectional survey, inclusion criteria will be * Age \> 18 years * Ability to provide informed consent * Miner or community member (defined as all individuals not directly involved in mining) * HIV positive and negative individuals For the cohort study, inclusion criteria will be * Age \> 18 years * Ability to provide informed consent * Current miner in an artisanal, small-scale tanzanite mine that is part of this study * Male * Mine exposure starting \<10 years ago * HIV positive and negative individuals For the cross-sectional survey, there are no exclusion criteria. For the cohort study, exclusion criteria will be: \- Plans to move away from area in next 18 months
Where this trial is running
Sanya Juu, Kilimanjaro
- Kibong'oto Infectious Diseases Hospital — Sanya Juu, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Patrick J Howlett, MB ChB
- Email: patrick.howlett@gmail.com
- Phone: +447793198119
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.