Breathing Under Pressure: Exploring the Link Between PM2.5 Pollution and Asthma Health Outcomes in Nepal, Thailand, and Malaysia

Abstract Air pollution is a growing concern worldwide, especially particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5), which has been shown to have detrimental health effects. Various studies have established a strong link between PM2.5 exposure and respiratory diseases, such as asthma. The purpose of this longitudinal study was to examine the extent of the effects of PM2.5 as a risk factor for asthmatic mortality and morbidity in three countries: Nepal, Thailand, and Malaysia. Data on PM2.5 levels and asthma-related health outcomes in all three countries from 1990 to 2019 were collected from two databases. The data was then analyzed to determine a possible relationship between PM2.5 levels and asthma-related health outcomes and to determine the differences in outcomes between the three countries. The results indicated that in all three countries, PM2.5 levels were correlated with %DALYS for asthma and %asthma deaths. PM2.5 levels increased in Nepal over the time period, whereas PM2.5 levels decreased in Thailand and Malaysia. The results showed a significant difference between Nepal and Thailand and Nepal and Malaysia, with an insignificant difference between Malaysia and Thailand. These results indicate that reducing PM2.5 levels may improve respiratory health outcomes in the three countries. The results also underscore the need for increased research, improvements in intervention strategies, utilization of technology, and public health initiatives to reduce the health risks associated with PM2.5 levels.