Haze in Southeast Asia has become a recurring concern, often causing friction between neighboring countries and impacting the health of the region’s residents. Just weeks after the commitment to a haze-free region by 2030, Southeast Asia finds itself grappling with another bout of severe haze, prompting health advisories and calls for action. In this article, we will explore the causes of the chronic haze and delve into the significant health effects it poses to individuals in the affected areas.
Causes of the Chronic Haze
The chronic haze that blankets parts of Malaysia and Indonesia is primarily attributed to forest fires, especially during the dry season. Malaysia has attributed the haze to Indonesia, asserting that smoke from forest fires crosses the border. These fires, often initiated through “slash and burn” land clearing, serve the interests of industries such as oil palm, pulp, and paper plantations. Despite regulations aimed at curbing these practices, loopholes and opaque supply chains allow some large companies to evade responsibility for illegal land clearance.
Addressing the Haze Problem
Efforts to combat the haze include measures like water bombing via helicopters and legal actions against companies involved in illegal burning. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has also established a coordinating center for Transboundary Haze Pollution Control, reflecting a commitment to a haze-free region by 2030. Despite these initiatives, the recurring issue persists, largely due to regulatory challenges and compliance issues.
Haze and Climate Change
Climate change further exacerbates the problem as warming intensifies the frequency and intensity of forest and land fires, amplifying the climate crisis.
The Health Effects of Haze
Haze exposure can lead to various health issues. Short-term effects include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and fatigue, which can be particularly severe for individuals with pre-existing heart or lung disorders. Fine particulate matter (PM), especially PM2.5 (particles smaller than 2.5 microns), poses the most significant health hazard. Prolonged exposure to haze and PM can result in conditions like bronchitis and an increased risk of lung cancer.
Recommendations for Dealing with Haze:
- Stay indoors when air pollution readings (API in Malaysia; PSI in Singapore) reaches unhealthy levels.
- Use N95 masks for outdoor exposure during haze.
- Keep doors and windows closed and use air purifiers with HEPA filters to improve indoor air quality.
- Consume ample water to maintain hydration.
- Patients experiencing severe symptoms should be advised to visit a healthcare professional, especially if the patient has pre-existing health conditions.
Exercising During Haze
Outdoor exercise during hazy conditions, especially when the PSI exceeds 100 (i.e., ‘unhealthy’), is counterproductive. Inhaling polluted air during exercise can lead to deeper penetration of harmful particles into the lungs and bloodstream, posing serious health risks.
Long-Term Impact on Health
While short-term exposure to haze may result in temporary health issues, studies have shown a clear link between air pollution and cardiovascular and lung cancer deaths. PM2.5 particles, in particular, have been found to be deadly. Therefore, minimizing air pollution exposure is essential for long-term health.
Southeast Asia’s recurring haze issue has serious health implications, especially for vulnerable populations and individuals with pre-existing conditions. Efforts to mitigate the problem must continue, and individuals should take proactive measures to protect their health during periods of poor air quality. Clean air is invaluable, and reducing air pollution is key to safeguarding long-term well-being.
API: air pollution index; HEPA: high efficiency particulate air; PM: particulate matter; PSI: pollutant standards index
Links to sources:
https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/whats-causing-chronic-haze-across-southeast-asia-2023-10-06/
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/malaysians-urged-to-hydrate-stay-indoors-to-limit-exposure-to-haze
https://www.mountelizabeth.com.sg/health-plus/article/the-effects-of-haze-on-your-health
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