September 11, 2025 - The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is providing free and confidential black lung disease screenings throughout September at multiple locations in Ohio and West Virginia.

Six new screening sites have been added:

• Zanesville, OH – Ohio University, Zanesville (Sept. 15, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.)
• Wheeling, WV – UMWA Wheeling Office (Sept. 16, 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m.)
• Woodsfield, OH – Municipal Building (Sept. 17, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.)
• Hopedale, OH – Volunteer Fire Department (Sept. 18, 8 a.m.–3:30 p.m.)
• Triadelphia, WV – Bass Pro Shop (Sept. 19, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.)
• Mannington, WV – Price Cutter (Sept. 23, 8 a.m.–3:30 p.m.)

All current and former coal miners—whether working underground on the surface, or under contract—are encouraged to participate. The screenings help with early detection of black lung disease, a preventable but serious respiratory condition caused by inhaling coal mine dust.

The screening process takes about 30 minutes and includes a work history and respiratory questionnaire, a chest X-ray, a blood pressure check, and a breathing test.

A confidential report of the results will be sent to each participant within eight to ten weeks. Walk-ins are welcome, though appointments are recommended.

These mobile screenings support NIOSH’s mission to prevent work-related illness and improve occupational health outcomes.