PM 2.5 Dust Health Impact Surveillance Model Using A2IM Approach of Communities at Nakhon Ratchasima Province

Abstract

         Objective: This study aimed to develop a PM2.5 dust health impact surveillance model using the Assessment, Advocacy, Intervention, and Management (AAIM) approach in communities of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand.

         Method: This research employed a Participatory Action Research (PAR) design, conducted in five districts with the highest levels of PM2.5 pollution: Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima, Kham Thale So, Phimai, Khong, and Sida. Communities were selected through simple random sampling, with one community per district. Key informants were purposively selected, with 30 participants from each community, totaling 150 participants. Data collection methods included semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and workshops. Qualitative data were analyzed using data triangulation, content analysis, and inductive reasoning.

         Results: The study developed a PM2.5 dust health impact surveillance model based on the AAIM approach, comprising four core components: (1) Assessment—risk evaluation, compilation of PM2.5 situation data, and coordination with local agencies; (2) Advocacy—enhancing health and environmental literacy among community leaders and establishing communication systems for early warnings; (3) Intervention—creating community-driven innovations for health surveillance and prevention, such as flag warning systems, dust-free rooms, and simple monitoring devices, along with the establishment of community regulations; and (4) Management—organizing community committees, extracting lessons learned, integrating collaboration across five sectors, proposing policies, and enforcing regulations. Implementation of this model enhanced community capacity for participatory and sustainable PM2.5 management.