It’s rare, but possible, for gardening to damage your lungs, says British Lung Foundation 13/6/2008

People pre-disposed to lung problems should take steps to protect themselves from compost dust, says the British Lung Foundation.The current issue of The Lancet cites the case of a 47-year old man died when he contracted aspergillosis after dispersing large amounts of rotting tree and plant mulch in his garden.

“It’s very rare for people to develop lung conditions like aspergillosis from exposure to substances like compost and mulch, but it is possible, particularly in people who might be pre-disposed to lung problems such as current or ex-smokers, people who have worked in dusty environments, or people with poor immune responses,” says Dr Keith Prowse, Chair of the British Lung Foundation. “It would be wise for people dispersing large amounts of compost and mulch to protect their lungs by wearing a mask, particularly if they may already have suffered damage.”