High risk of pleural plaques and parenchymal abnormalities in women living in Biancavilla (Italy)

Fluoro-edenite is a natural mineral species first isolated in Biancavilla, Sicily, used for construction of houses and roads, with health effects allegedly the same as those of asbestos. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the risks of pleural plaques and parenchymal abnormalities in women living in Biancavilla through a retrospective cross-sectional study. The evaluation pointed out a relative risk of pleural plaques of 39.67 (95% CI: 11.33-138.82) and 27.67 (95% CI: 5.43-141.00) for parenchymal abnormalities as well. These findings have prompted urge to extend the screening on the possible abnormalities of the respiratory tract to all Biancavilla's population, particularly in those aged more than 30 years.