Question

Which of the following is an occupational respiratory disorder?
A. Anthracis
B. Silicosis
C. Botulism
D. Emphysema

Answer 1

Occupational lung diseases are defined by those diseases that are caught by excessive inhalation of dust, chemicals or proteins. This is most common for people working at factories and workplaces. Certain occupations, because of the nature of their location, work, and environment, are more at risk for occupational lung diseases than others. It includes diseases like occupational asthma, chronic obstructivepulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung diseases and several others.

Complete answer:
Anthracis is also known as Anthrax, the infectious disease caused by the bacterium called Bacillus anthracis, which is usually transmitted from animals to humans. But this disease is caused by a bacterium and hence, it is not an occupational respiratory disorder.
Botulism is a rare bacterial infection that can be transmitted through food, water and contact. It can’t be related to someone’s occupation so the related hazard is to be considered.
Emphysema is a lung disease that comes under the category of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and is mostly caused due to excessive smoking. But we can’t see any direct linkage with occupational hazard and most importantly, the presence of silica can’t be seen here.
Silicosis is a lung infection caused by excessive inhalation of silica. It is very common for people working at factories that are involved in the production and management of silica. Hence, it is an occupational-respiratory disorder. That means while serving in distinct places and working with silica or such related products, it is seen that many people are affected by the disease.

Note: Contrary to a popular misconception, coal miners are not the only ones at risk for occupational lung diseases. For instance, working in a car garage or textile factory can expose a person to hazardous chemicals, dusts, and fibres. They may lead to a lifetime of lung problems if not properly diagnosed and treated within proper time.