February 23, 2009
Bangkok (ASTV Manager Online) – Thai people in the north had the highest rate of lung cancer compared to other regions of the country, according to a study.
There are 500-600 new lung cancer patients in each year.
Assoc Prof Dr. Pongthep Vivathanadej from the Faculty of Medicines, Chiang Mai University, said forest and garbage burning produced smogs which caused the disease.
The number of patients with respiratory diseases increased by 25 percent at the Dok Kham Tai Hospital in Phayao, according to Dr. Somnuek Vheevakiatyingyong.
Tak public health office also warned people in the province to take care of their health and avoid going to the outdoor places which expose to fumes and smoke.
People were urged to use nose masks if necessary. Aged people and kids were told to see doctor if having respiratory symptoms.
Any areas with small particles exceeding 200 micrograms per cubic metre will be announced as controlled zones immediately.
The level of small particles in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Lampun exceeded the standard value of 120 micrograms per cubic metre on February 19.
The level in Lampang was measured at 212.9 micrograms per cubic metre, according to the pollution control department.
