Specialists call for medical remedies
PUBLISHED: 2 Feb 2025 at 06: 25
Authorities have urged the government to set a long-term action plan and clear, science-based policies as the top priority for air quality control. As pollutants worsens, teamwork between state companies, researchers, and the public is necessary, a seminar was told.
Speaking at the 30th Chula the Impact conference under the style” Chula thinks together to address the PM2.5 crisis”, held by Chulalongkorn University, specialists from different areas discussed the consequences of PM2.5 waste, shared studies, and suggested options.
The event sought to raise awareness among the general public and offer change-related research tips.
Prof Wilert Puriwat, chairman of Chulalongkorn University, highlighted the school’s commitment to using academic research to address climate problems.
The debate focused on identifying the sources of PM2.5, learning about its dangers for health, and developing measures to combat waste.
The authorities issued a warning about the severe health consequences of PM2.5.
Patthrarawalai Sirinara, of the Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, said:” PM2.5 exposure can cause both short-term and long-term wellness problems, including heart pain, cancer, and heart disease”.
Research even found toxic heavy metals in Bangkok’s heat, increasing cancer risks. ” If Thailand adopts the WHO’s air quality standard of <, 15 mcg/m³, cancer cases could drop by 44 %”, she said.
Assoc Prof Sirima Panyamethikul, from Chulalongkorn University’s Department of Environmental Engineering, stressed the need for better waste control.
” We must address waste at its resource– traffic, factories, and intergovernmental haze. Independent attempts didn’t work”, she said.
Researchers also called for better air quality monitoring, greater pollution control methods, and improved public knowledge.
PM2.5 waste in Thailand originates from traffic, factories, grain burning, and fog from neighbouring countries.
Weighing in: At the 30th Chula the Impact seminar to help solve the PM2.5 crisis, Prof. Wilert Puriwat ( third from left ), president of Chulalongkorn University, poses for a group photo.
Long-term coverage can lead to serious health issues, including heart disease, heart troubles, and even cancer. Studies show Bangkok’s heat contains hazardous metal, making it even more dangerous.