Air pollution made over one crore Thais sick in 2023

The data from the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) revealed that more than 10 million (one crore) Thais sought treatment for illnesses linked to air pollution in 2023.

From 1.3 million in the first nine weeks of 2023, the number of people seeking treatment for pollution-related illnesses increased to 1.6 million at the start of 2024. Thailand has a population of about 72 million.

Widespread farm burning and forest fires, notably in the country's north, often create a noxious smog at the beginning of the year.
The start of 2024 has already seen a jump in cases of pollution-related diseases compared to the previous year.

The cases include those with chronic conditions such as lung cancer, bronchitis, asthma, and heart diseases.

Thailand must "prioritise... the impact of PM2.5 on public health", the NESDC said.

PM 2.5 refers to the level of tiny, hazardous particles - with diameters that are 2.5 micrometres or smaller - that can enter bloodstreams though the lungs.

Exposure to these micro-pollutants can cause burning and itching in the eyes and skin, as well as coughing and chest tightness. 
These symptoms may be amplified for those who have pre-existing heart or lung conditions.

Some of Thailand's northern cities have been cited as among the world's most polluted by air quality monitoring websites. Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Lampang have been given "unhealthy" ratings by monitoring platform IQAir.

Thailand's air pollution is a problem during the dry season - which typically runs from November to March - mainly due to seasonal burning from farmers clearing their sugarcane and rice fields.

Earlier this year, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin pledged to improve air quality. Lawmakers also endorsed a bill aimed at tackling the problem. 

Last week, the country announced plans to deploy 30 aircraft across the nation for cloud seeding to induce rain and ease pollution.