Factors related to air pollution and impacts on respiratory health in Malaysia

Zainib Amirah Anwar and Safirah Jaan Jaafar and Abdul Rahman Ramdzan (2024) Factors related to air pollution and impacts on respiratory health in Malaysia. Borneo Epidemiology Journal, 5 (1). pp. 1-19. ISSN 2735-0266

Text FULL TEXT.pdf Restricted to Registered users only Download (298kB) | Request a copy

Abstract

Introduction: Air pollution, driven by urbanization, industrial activities, and transboundary haze, poses a significant threat to public health in Malaysia. It contributes to respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis. Although advancements in monitoring have improved data accuracy, challenges remain in addressing regional disparities and climate-related factors. This review aims to explore air quality monitoring, factors influencing pollution, and its impacts on respiratory health in Malaysia. Objective: To identify the scope of air quality monitoring, factors contributing to air pollution, and the associated impacts on respiratory health in Malaysia. Method: A scoping review methodology was employed, using databases such as ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Studies were included if they were conducted in Malaysia, published in English within the last five years, and investigated the relationship between air pollution and respiratory diseases. Data extraction focused on pollutants, study settings, and key findings. Results: The review included 19 studies. Key findings indicate that urbanization, vehicular emissions, and transboundary haze are primary contributors to air pollution. Pollutants such as PM10, PM2.5, and NO2 are significantly associated with respiratory diseases, particularly asthma and COPD. Monitoring data shows that urban areas face greater challenges, while transboundary pollution affects rural and suburban regions. Conclusion: Air pollution remains a pressing issue in Malaysia, exacerbated by urbanization and transboundary haze. Strengthening air quality policies, enhancing monitoring systems, and promoting public awareness are crucial to reducing health risks. Future research should prioritize underrepresented regions, long-term health impacts, and the effectiveness of regulatory measures. Collaborative and region-specific interventions are essential to combat this multifaceted challenge.

Item Type:	Article
Keyword:	Air quality, Air pollution, Respiratory diseases, Asthma, COPD
Subjects:	R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA1-1270 Public aspects of medicine > RA421-790.95 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive medicine > RA565-600 Environmental health Including sewage disposal, air pollution, nuisances, water supply R Medicine > RC Internal medicine > RC31-1245 Internal medicine > RC581-951 Specialties of internal medicine > RC705-779 Diseases of the respiratory system
Department:	FACULTY > Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
Depositing User:	SITI AZIZAH BINTI IDRIS -
Date Deposited:	13 Feb 2025 14:45
Last Modified:	13 Feb 2025 14:45
URI:	https://eprints.ums.edu.my/id/eprint/42872

Actions (login required)

View Item