©ICBTS Copyright by Author(s) |The 2024 International Academic Multidisciplines Research Conference in Seoul 312 THE AWARENESS OF ATMOSPHERIC PATICULATE MATTER TOWARDS HEALTH THREATS: A CASE STUDY IN BANGKOK METROPOLITAN, THAILAND

Abstract

This research aims to study the awareness of particulate matter (PM2.5) towards health
threats: a case study in Bangkok metropolitan also emphasizes efforts initiated by respondents
to reduce the related health threats consequences and suggest particulate matter (PM2.5) control
for relevant agency. The questionnaire was disseminated to the public and received 172
responses. Descriptive statistics, which include frequency and percentage of respondents were
calculated. The Independent Samples t-test, a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and the
Chi-Square test were employed to identify variables associated with the public's awareness and
practices with regard to PM2.5 in Bangkok metropolitan area. A p-value less than 0.05 was
considered as a statistically significant. A large number of the respondents were unaware of
PM2.5, how widespread it is in Bangkok metropolitan area, and to what extent it has been
monitored. However, the majority of respondents indicated respiratory issues and adopted self-
protective measures when the air quality was unfavorable. There were significant differences
in the implementation of preventative measures, which was widespread amongst individuals
who suffered from respiratory problems. Approximately 38% of respondents expressed an
interest in getting information on Bangkok's air quality index through social and mass media.
The findings suggested that there is a need to increase public awareness of airborne
contaminants, particulate matter (PM2.5) and the negative health consequences. Furthermore,
epidemiological research should be done to increase the awareness of how particulate matter
is associated to morbidity and mortality in Bangkok metropolitan area respectively.