The relationship between PM2.5 the incidence of respiratory diseases among the population in Nong Ruea District, Khon Kaen Province

Abstract

Airborne particulate matter PM_2.5 pollution significantly impacts public health and quality of life, particularly in urban and industrial regions. This research aimed to study the temporal trends and the relationship between PM_2.5 concentration and the incidence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in Nong Ruea District, Khon Kaen Province. Data analysis was conducted using secondary sources consisting of disease incidence and PM_2.5 concentrations covering the 2019–2024 period. Descriptive statistics, including the mean and standard deviation, were used to characterize the data. Key findings indicate that the monthly PM_2.5 concentration was highest in March, averaging 10.25 µg/m3, and lowest in June, at 2.36 µg/m3. The results revealed a general positive association: increased PM_2.5 exposure correlated with a corresponding rise in the incidence of both respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. However, a statistically significant relationship was not established for the specific, severe conditions studied (including pneumonia, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, bronchitis, and lung cancer). The resulting spatial data on disease risk and population density can be a crucial tool for risk management. This information serves as a guideline for future decision-making, inspection, surveillance, tracking, and prevention strategies for these disease.