• IZANKIZA Dieudonne
• Dr. HABIMANA Amos, PhD
• Dr. NSANZABERA Charles PhD

Abstract Silicosis, an occupational lung disease, remains a significant public health issue worldwide. The disease disproportionately affects workers in various industries, particularly mining. Globally, an estimated 2.4 million workers are exposed to silica dust, making silicosis a substantial contributor to work-related respiratory illnesses. While the mining sector plays a vital role in economic development, it also exposes workers to serious health risks, especially through prolonged inhalation of respirable silica dust. In Rwanda, workers at Rutongo Mines are regularly involved in activities such as drilling and blasting, placing them at high risk of silicosis. Despite these known risks, no comprehensive study had previously assessed the burden of silicosis in this workforce. The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence and factors associated with silicosis among mine workers of Rutongo mines industry, Rwanda. This study employed a cross-sectional quantitative design, targeting employees of Rutongo Mines Industry. Out of a total population of 1,015 workers, a sample of 316 participants was selected using Yamane’s formula. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and secondary records from Rutongo District Hospital. Analyses were performed using univariate, bivariate, and multivariate statistical methods, and results were presented in tables and figures. The study revealed that 10.1% of mine workers were diagnosed with silicosis. Significant factors associated with silicosis included age above 50 years (AOR=4.5), undergrounds mining (AOR = 4.021), HIV-positive status (AOR=9.3), previous TB treatment (AOR=4.9), positive COVID-19 test (AOR=3.9), smoking (AOR=2.7), and long-term exposure of 15+ years (AOR=5.7). The findings highlight a moderate but concerning burden of silicosis and underscore the urgent need for improved occupational health practices and respiratory protection interventions in the mining sector. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that silicosis remains a pressing occupational health concern in Rutongo Mines, driven by both personal and work-related factors. The results call for strengthened health surveillance, dust exposure control, and targeted education for high-risk workers. Ethical approval was obtained from Mount Kenya University, and all participants gave informed consent.

Prevalence, Factors Associated, Silicosis, Mines Workers, Rutongo Mines Industry

"Prevalence and Factors Associated with Silicosis Among Mines Workers of Rutongo Mines Industry, in Rwanda", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 10, page no.e452-e464, October-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2510458.pdf

"Prevalence and Factors Associated with Silicosis Among Mines Workers of Rutongo Mines Industry, in Rwanda", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 10, page no. ppe452-e464, October-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2510458.pdf