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Spike In Black Lung Cases Strains Federal Benefits Program NPR looks at the causes of a dramatic spike in the most serious stage of the coal miners' disease. The spike also could stress the federal black lung benefits program, which is already struggling.
Special Series

Black Lung Returns To Coal Country

A deadly coal miners' disease is surging back despite rules created to control the disease.

Spike In Black Lung Cases Strains Federal Benefits Program

Heard on All Things Considered

Spike In Black Lung Cases Strains Federal Benefits Program

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In the second of two reports, NPR looks at the causes of a dramatic spike in progressive massive fibrosis, the most serious stage of the coal miners' disease, black lung. The spike also could stress the federal black lung benefits program, which is already struggling. (Read and listen to the first story here).

Special Series

Black Lung Returns To Coal Country

A deadly coal miners' disease is surging back despite rules created to control the disease.