Cancer Doctor Warns PM 2.5: Silent Threat Harms Patients, Causes Breathing Difficulties and Increased Infection Risk

The PM 2.5 dust situation has worsened, prompting a government red alert. Dr. Asawadej Saenbua offers advice on caring for cancer patients, highlighting that fine dust worsens immune function, causing inflammation and slower recovery.

Amid the renewed critical PM 2.5 dust situation this week, government agencies have issued red-level warnings in many areas, posing severe health impacts, especially for vulnerable groups like cancer patients. These fine particles may worsen their condition, delaying treatment and causing physical decline.

Why is PM 2.5 more dangerous for cancer patients than for the general public?

PM 2.5 refers to extremely small airborne particles invisible to the naked eye. When inhaled, they penetrate deeply into the lungs, with some entering the bloodstream directly. While the general public might experience coughing or shortness of breath, the effects on cancer patients are far more severe.

Dr. Asawadej Saenbua, a radiation and oncology specialist at the Advanced Cancer Center, World Medical Center (WMC), explains that cancer patients are usually physically weakened by the disease itself or treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or immunosuppressive drugs. Exposure to PM 2.5 further impairs their immune systems, triggers bodily inflammation, and slows recovery.

Does PM 2.5 cause cancer recurrence?

Although there is no definitive evidence that PM 2.5 directly causes cancer to return, this dust acts like "wind fanning a fire," gradually weakening patients’ strength, making it harder to fight the disease, and potentially increasing severe side effects from treatment, which reduces their tolerance to therapy.

Warning signs relatives should not overlook

If patients exhibit the following symptoms, they should see a doctor immediately.

• A noticeable increase in coughing
• Shortness of breath or difficulty filling the lungs fully
• Chest tightness
• Unusual fatigue or easy exhaustion throughout the day

How to prevent and care for cancer patients exposed to PM 2.5 dust

Relatives serve as the first crucial line of defense and should follow these recommendations.

• At home: Keep doors and windows tightly closed during high pollution periods, use air purifiers if available, and importantly, avoid smoking, burning incense, or lighting candles inside the home.
• When going outside: Avoid traveling during peak pollution times. If going out is necessary, wear N95 or KN95 masks properly.
• Basic care: Ensure patients drink sufficient water, eat a balanced diet covering all five food groups, and get ample rest to help strengthen their immune system.

Preventing PM 2.5 exposure is not a distant concern but an essential part of cancer patient care equal in importance to medication. Attention to these small prevention details can improve patients’ chances of recovery and enhance their quality of life.