Diagnostic changes will help workers

The Ministry of Health (MOH) publicized on Friday new diagnostic criteria of pneumoconiosis in a bid to better protect workers against the major occupational hazard in China.

The new criteria, now open to public opinions and suggestions, will probably take effect on Nov 1, replacing the 2002 version.

The new one highlights regular and continuous medical observation for potential pneumoconiosis patients who don't meet pneumoconiosis diagnostic standards through chest X-ray analysis but show other signs of the disease.