Workers who cut and polish engineered stone countertops, often marketed as "quartz," are developing a severe and rapidly progressing form of silicosis. This preventable lung disease, similar to asbestos exposure, can lead to lung cancer, kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders. In California alone, over 550 workers have been diagnosed, with at least 30 deaths reported between 2019 and 2026. Despite the risks, major retailers like Costco, Home Depot, and Lowe's continue to sell these products, while IKEA has ceased sales. AI
RANK_REASON Public health crisis emerging from a common consumer product. [lever_c_demoted from significant: ic=1 ai=0.0]
- autoimmune disease
- California
- Costco
- engineered stone
- Home Depot
- IKEA
- kidney disease
- Lowe
- lung cancer
- quartz
- Silicosis
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