Haze-Related Illnesses Increase By 40 Per Cent Across Malaysia

Not only is it giving everyone an unpleasant time whenever we are outdoors, the number of illnesses tied to the haze has also increased.

According to a Bernama report, there is now a 40 per cent rise in conjunctivitis, asthma and skin rashes cases across the nation because of this air pollution that is borderline hazardous.

The director-general of the Health Ministry Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said that the number of people seeking treatments varied at different stations.

The higher the Air Pollutant Index (API) reading of an area, the higher its number of haze-related illnesses.

While the aforementioned health risks are short term, exposure to such air pollution for an extended period of time could result in more severe complications diseases, some even deadly.

Respiratory specialist Dr Helmy Haja Mydin from Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur told Malay Mail that the complications could include cancer, heart attacks and stunted physical and mental development. "The health risks associated with particulate matter of less than 2.5 microns in diameter (PM2.5) are well known. These are capable of penetrating deep into lung passageways and entering the bloodstream leading to effects on the heart, brain and lungs," he said. "It's a known risk factor for lung cancer. Lungs-wise, haze can lead to reduced lung function, increased respiratory infections and more asthma attacks."

Needless to say, the public is advised to stay indoors and minimise going outdoors for the time being.

And whenever you need to go outside, take extra precautions like wearing face masks, as well as washing your face and other parts of your body that are exposed as frequently as possible.

We cannot stress this enough but it is highly crucial to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially during this time.