UIC Center Prioritizes Care for Black Lung Disease as Younger Miners Increasingly Affected

Posted on April 15, 2026
Two researchers seated next to each other and looking at x-rays on computer monitors.
Dr. Robert Cohen (left) and Dr. Leonard Go of the MinER Center. (Photo: Martin Hernandez/UIC)

Since 2014, the School of Public Health’s Mining Education and Research (MinER) Center has provided education and clinical services for treatment of black lung disease, and conducted research related to health and safety in the mining industry. With new funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration, the center is collecting and analyzing data from across the U.S. to determine best practices and protocols for treating black lung disease. Center director Dr. Robert Cohen notes that modern mining technology is affecting younger populations of workers, and that clinics are needed now more than ever.