Amidst the smog that affects our bodies today, posing a serious and worsening threat, it can directly enter the nose, lungs, and bloodstream.

PM2.5 dust is threatening many areas in Thailand. These tiny particulate matter, with a diameter less than 2.5 micrometers, are so small that they are “smaller than a human hair” and invisible to the naked eye.

According to statistics from last year, the air pollution level was 179, but this year it has jumped to 191, reflecting a worsening situation that is approaching a critical point.

Bangkok, the capital city, has the second worst air quality in the world, according to data from the “Air Visual” application. The app’s Air Visual indicates Bangkok’s air pollution level is 179 AQI (Air Quality Index), classified as level 4, or “unhealthy,” out of six levels.

Do you know or do you not care about prevention?

The question remains lingering, because earlier this year, Chiang Mai once again ranked among the world’s worst air quality countries, specifically at number 4, highlighting Thailand’s continued poor air quality. This year, the highest air quality index (AQI) reached 191.

These figures are considered to be well above level 4 to level 5 (201–300 AQI), which is considered “very unhealthy,” but not yet reaching level 6 (300–500 AQI), or the dangerous level, according to air quality measurements.

The issue of Thailand’s extremely poor air quality, which is even worse this year, has been highlighted. However, instead of raising awareness and encouraging people to wear masks, there’s a noticeable disregard for protection compared to previous years, reflecting a possible desensitization to living with air pollution. Professor Sonthi Kotchawat, an environmental and health expert from the Thai Environmental Academics Club, analyzed the main cause of air pollution in Bangkok via his Facebook page, “Sonthi Kotchawat,” stating that it’s likely due to the transition from winter to summer (January-March each year), a period when air pollutants don’t settle and winds are relatively calm, causing PM2.5 to become a significant problem.

The high levels of PM2.5 in Bangkok originate primarily from the approximately 10.3 million vehicles, 2.7 million of which are diesel-engine vehicles. These vehicles are constantly on the roads throughout the day, releasing significant amounts of air pollution.

Combined with the construction of six elevated train projects on ten major roads, traffic congestion has become even more severe.

PM 2.5 dust directly affects the human respiratory system, causing dust-related diseases such as:

• Chronic respiratory diseases

• Allergic diseases

• Asthma

• Emphysema

Isn’t it time we became aware of the need to take care of ourselves and those around us?

How to cope with “PM 2.5 air pollution”: things you need to know. 1. Wear a PM 2.5 dust mask. Don’t be ashamed to wear a dust mask because these masks can help a lot, especially N95 masks which are effective at protecting against pollution. If you can’t find an N95 mask or are on a tight budget, you can even use a surgical mask with a tissue inside.   2. Get enough sleep and eat healthy food. Getting enough sleep keeps our bodies strong and ready to face anything. Also, eat a healthy diet and take supplements like Vitamin C and Vitamin E.