A study of perception and health impacts of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) among the working-age populations in Bangkok

Abstract

     This survey research by cross-sectional study aimed to examine environmental health perception, health care behaviours, and health effects of particulate matter not exceeding 2.5 microns (PM2.5) among the working-age population in Bangkok, as well as to investigate the associations between environmental health perception and health behaviours, health effects, and perceived health impacts. A total of 405 participants aged 18–59 years were recruited using non-probability and convenience sampling. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire with an overall reliability coefficient (Cronbach's alpha) of 0.93. Descriptive statistics (percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Chi-square test) were employed for data analysis.

     The results revealed that the majority of participants were female, aged 31–50 years, held a bachelor's degree, had a monthly income exceeding 25,000 THB, worked as private company employees, and had no underlying diseases. The overall environmental health perception score was at a high level, with the decision-making domain having the lowest mean score. Overall health care behaviours were at a sometimes-performed level, with wearing an N95 mask being the least practiced behaviour. Overall health effects were at a low level, with nasal irritation, stuffiness, and congestion being at a moderate level. Overall perceived health impacts of PM2.5 on human health were at a low level, with the lowest awareness observed for associations with diabetes and miscarriage. Furthermore, the Chi-square analysis revealed that the decision-making domain was significantly associated with self-protective health behaviours (p<0.05), while access to information, information verification, and decision-making were significantly associated with perceived health impacts (p<0.05).