What are the long term effects from working on a Cobalt mine in the DRC without protective clothing/masks etc.

My Husband has been working in the DRC on a Cobalt / copper mine and I was just wondering if there are any ill health affects from this sort of mining. He has not been well lately, we have had blood test done and there is concern as hid RED BLOOD CELL count is 8.99 and should be 18. Any help will be appreciated. Many thanksWhat are the long term effects from working on a Cobalt mine in the DRC without protective clothing/masks etc.
well not sure exactly abt the systemic effects due 2 working in cobalt or copper mine......but there is a thing called pneumoconiosis(which is a lung problem also called intertesial lung disease)which could our after a long exposure as u just told......so u better as 4 X-ray chest as well even if he is not having any cough problem........