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. 2016 Jan 1;124(1):A13–A18. doi: 10.1289/ehp.124-A13

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graphic file with name ehp.124-A13.g003.jpg — Inset: Highly reactive particles of coal mine dust can infiltrate the deepest reaches of the lung. These inhaled particles of coal dust and/or silica create a chronic inflammatory response that damages the lung.

© Ed Reschke/Getty