In Appalachia, a Father Got Black Lung. Then His Son Did, Too.
The New York TimesThursday, June 19, 2025 at 3:49:07 PM
A father and son in Appalachia both developed black lung disease, a severe and often fatal condition caused by inhaling coal dust. Once considered a fading threat, the disease is now striking younger miners, while federal budget cuts threaten to undermine efforts to address the crisis.
Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a tragic family story—it’s a warning. Black lung was supposed to be a relic of the past, but it’s making a dangerous comeback, and weakened regulations and funding cuts could leave even more miners vulnerable. The fact that younger workers are getting sick suggests something is seriously wrong with workplace safety measures. If we don’t act, more families will pay the price.
— Curated via WP Now’s
