Silicosis is a lung disease caused by the inhalation of crystalline silica dust. Sandblasters are at the highest risk due to their direct and prolonged exposure to fine silica particles during the abrasive cleaning process. These particles reach the alveoli, causing inflammation and fibrosis, leading to silicosis. Occupations without significant silica dust exposure, such as teachers, nurses, and accountants, have a negligible risk. Therefore, the highest risk correlates strongly with occupational silica dust exposure intensity and duration, making sandblasting a key risk factor.

Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, Fauci et al., 20th Edition.