The Prevalence of Chronic Diseases Among Current and Ex-Miners in the United States

Objective: To determine and compare the prevalence and odds of chronic diseases among ex- and current miners. Methods: Fourteen-year pooled data from the National Health Interview Survey between 2004 and 2017 were analyzed. Ex- and current miners ages 18 to 64 years were defined based on employment status at the time of National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) interview. We calculated age-adjusted prevalence rates and odds ratios of association of chronic diseases. The analysis was adjusted for respondent's age, sex, race, marital status, poverty-income ratio, health insurance, and smoking status. Results: Ex-miners have significantly increased prevalence of most chronic diseases. The age-adjusted prevalence and the adjusted odds of heart disease, cancer, hypertension, diabetes, and psychological stress were significantly higher among ex-miners as compared with current miners. Conclusions: Ex-miners have worse health outcomes that may persist for years after leaving the mining industry.