Perspective on Particulate Matter: From Biomass Burning to the Health Crisis in Mainland Southeast Asia

Abstract

Air pollution, notably particulate matter pollution, has become a serious concern in Southeast Asia in recent decades. The combustion of biomass has been recognized to considerably increase air pollution problems from particulate matter in this region. Consequently, its effect on people in this area is significant. This article presents a synthesis of several datasets obtained from satellites, global emissions, global reanalysis, and the global burden of disease (GBD) to highlight the air quality issue and emphasize the health crisis in mainland Southeast Asia. We found that the death rates of people have increased significantly along with the rise of hotspots in mainland Southeast Asia over the last two decades (2000–2019). In comparison, most countries saw a considerable increase in the predicted fatality rates associated with chronic respiratory illnesses during those two decades. Several reports highlight the continued prevalence of chronic respiratory diseases likely related to poor air quality in Southeast Asia.

Development of a Heat Index Related to Air Quality and Meteorology for an Assessment of Work Performance in Thailand’s Urban Areas

“…In terms of overall air quality, Chiang Mai has the highest mean concentration of PM 2.5 at 23.84 mg/m 3 . The primary cause of air pollution is most likely open burning to prepare for the planting season [20]. Bangkok has the highest mean CO concentration by 0.81 ppm.…”

“…In terms of overall air quality, Chiang Mai has the highest mean concentration of PM2.5 at 23.84 mg/m 3 . The primary cause of air pollution is most likely open burning to prepare for the planting season [20]. Bangkok has the highest mean CO concentration common meteorological occurrence that can be attributed to a variety of factors, including dew point temperatures and the decreased moisture-holding capacity of air, which tends to increase as temperatures rise [24].…”

“…High temperatures and poor air quality, according to Kjellstrom et al [19], have the potential to lower labor productivity, increase fatigue, and impair cognitive processes. The increase in industrial operations, as well as the increasing number of automobiles on the road, has had a substantial impact on the deterioration of air quality [20]. Furthermore, the interaction of air quality, meteorological conditions, and the consequent HI can have a significant impact on occupational productivity, especially in cities.…”

Pathogenesis of PM2.5-Related Disorders in Different Age Groups: Children, Adults, and the Elderly

“…It is a complex assemblage of particles with diverse chemical compositions, derived from a range of origins, including combustion, vehicle exhaust, manufacturing processes, and environmental events. According to a study conducted by Amnuaylojaroen and Parasin [ 2 ], prolonged exposure to PM 2.5 was associated with a total of 4.14 million fatalities and 118 million lost disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). The composition of PM includes various toxic constituents that are soluble in water, primarily metals that have high dissolution and accessibility, as well as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) that have specific chemical compositions [ 3 ].…”

Prenatal PM2.5 Exposure and Its Association with Low Birth Weight: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

“…PM 2.5 is a complicated mixture of particles that have various chemical compositions. These particles come from several sources, such as burning, car emissions, industrial activities, and natural occurrences in the environment [1,2]. It can deeply infiltrate the respiratory system and enter the bloodstream, leading to many negative health consequences [1,3].…”