Soaring PM2.5 levels pose health risks

Several areas across Laos recorded PM2.5 concentrations exceeding safety limits, posing health risks to sensitive groups, according to a report issued by the Natural Resource and Environment Research Institute.

Air pollution in parts of Vientiane has reached unhealthy levels for sensitive groups.

The highest PM2.5 level was measured at 81.9 micrograms per cubic metre in Bountay district, Phongsaly province with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 140, classified as unhealthy for sensitive groups.
PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter measuring 2.5 micrometres or smaller, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
The AQI categorises pollution levels as follows: 0-50 (good), 51-100 (moderate), 101-150 (unhealthy for sensitive groups), 151-200 (unhealthy), 201-300 (very unhealthy), and above 300 (hazardous).
Other areas of Laos, including Paek district in Xieng Khuang province; Pakxan district in Borikhamxay province; Akard village in Vientiane; Saravan district in Saravan province, and Xanakham district in Vientiane province recorded PM2.5 levels between 52.9 and 61.3 micrograms per cubic metre, with AQI values ranging from 104 to 114. These levels pose health risks to children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
People with asthma, any chronic lung disease or cardiovascular disease are also at risk of exacerbated symptoms, which could prove fatal. The ministry advises against going outdoors unless essential, and wearing a face mask at all times when outside to reduce inhalation of fine ash or dust.
Prolonged outdoor activities such as exercise should be avoided, while it is advisable to drink plenty of water and drinks with mineral salts. Anyone with abnormal respiratory symptoms is advised to see a doctor immediately.
Meanwhile, some areas of Savannakhet, Xaysomboun, Bokeo and Oudomxay provinces reported good air quality, with PM2.5 levels below 20 micrograms per cubic metre.

The Haze Monitoring Division of the Natural Resources and Environment Research Institute notes that Laos experiences severe air pollution every year during the dry season. Especially from April to May, thick smog covers many areas across the country, mainly due to farmers burning fields to prepare for the next planting cycle.
During this period, high temperatures, low wind speeds, high humidity, and stagnant air trap PM2.5 particles, causing pollution levels to rise significantly.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment states that 30 percent of PM2.5 pollution in Laos is caused by the burning of garbage, forests, and farmland for agriculture.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest UpdateJanuary 31, 2025)