PM 2.5 dust has continued to be a problem for many years. Especially at the end of the year where dust levels are often especially high. Because it is a cold weather period. Makes the air still and dry As a result, dust does not rise to high places. Moreover, in some areas such as Bangkok, it is surrounded by tall buildings that block the wind. And there is a lot of dust from construction. It has become a contributing factor that makes air quality worse. Therefore affecting the health of many people.
How does PM 2.5 dust affect health?
PM 2.5 dust is a dust particle that is smaller than 2.5 microns. This small size can escape the filtration of nose hairs. Passes into the respiratory tract, enters the alveoli and penetrates. Passes into the capillaries and can enter the bloodstream Causes disease in many systems. In 2014, the World Health Organization announced that Exposure to PM 2.5 dust causes approximately 3.7 million premature deaths per year, with the majority of these deaths occurring in the western Pacific Ocean and Southeast Asia.
The health effects of PM 2.5 are divided into 2 phases:
short term exposure
Respiratory tract inflammation, difficulty breathing, burning nose, cough with phlegm, chest tightness, deflated air sacs, decreased lung function. Allergies and asthma attack, destroying the immune system. A lung infection has occurred. and easy respiratory problems such as influenza, bronchitis, ear infections, delayed child development, effects on the reproductive system cause infertility
long term exposure
Lung cancer, inflammation of the blood vessels May cause ischemic heart disease. Cerebral palsy high blood pressure Diabetes, chronic obstructive bronchitis, skin or eye infections, skin with dark spots and wrinkles, looking older than your age.
Who is a risk group that needs to watch out for PM 2.5 dust?
Children are classified as a high-risk group due to their small size, rapid breathing, and behavior of children who like to play in outdoor areas. There is a chance of inhaling a large amount of dust compared to body weight. And there is a tendency to not wear dust protection for asthmatic patients. Will be more sensitive to stimulation from PM 2.5 dust or these allergens. It causes lung function to decrease. and can cause asthma symptoms to worsen Increases the risk of being admitted to the emergency room. and ICU for pregnant women There is a risk of causing the fetus to grow slowly and become small. If exposed to dust pollution during the third trimester, premature birth may occur in the elderly. PM 2.5 has been found to be an important cause of death, with the risk increasing to 1.5. equal
How to prevent dust PM 2.5
Regularly monitor weather reports and PM 2.5 levels in your home or building. You should use an air purifier that can filter PM 2.5 dust. Wear a medical mask. Or wear an N95 mask when leaving the house or building, wear goggles to protect against dust, and wear a long-sleeved shirt that covers up to reduce the time spent outside the house/building. Especially groups at high risk of PM 2.5 such as children, pregnant women, elderly people, and patients with underlying diseases such as allergies, lung disease, heart disease, and stroke. and chronic kidney disease avoid outdoor exercise
References: Royal College of Pediatricians of Thailand, Samitivej Hospital, Ramathibodi Hospital
2023-11-05 10:22:39
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