Air pollution kills an estimated 7 million people worldwide every year. WHO data shows that 9 out of 10 people breathe air containing high levels of pollutants.
From smog hanging over cities to smoke inside the home, air pollution poses a major threat to health and climate. The combined effects of ambient (outdoor) and household air pollution cause about 7 million premature deaths every year, largely as a result of increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and acute respiratory infections.
More than 80% of people living in urban areas that monitor air pollution are exposed to air quality levels that exceed WHO guideline limits, with low-and middle income countries suffering from the highest exposures, both indoors and outdoors.
In Thailand, WHO has been collaborating with Ministry of Public Health and other partners since 2015 on the issue of air pollution and its effects on health.
Specifically, WHO supported a risk assessment of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in organic burnings in Northern Thailand to examine the levels of PAH in the air and street food. This assessment led to recommendations on PAH standards.
In Thailand, WHO has been collaborating with Ministry of Public Health and other partners since 2015 on the issue of air pollution and its effects on health.
Specifically, WHO supported a risk assessment of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in organic burnings in Northern Thailand to examine the levels of PAH in the air and street food. This assessment led to recommendations on PAH standards.
General information
- Briefing document on air pollution (English)
pdf, 369kb - Briefing document on air pollution (Thai)
pdf, 442kb