The National Health Assembly held at the turn of the millennium in 2000 resolved to do away with asbestos usage in Thailand, but this mandate has yet to be tangibly realized two decades later. Aware of this issue, the Public Relations Department has organized an activity for exchanges under the topic of asbestos-free Thailand.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health Anutin Charnvirakul, Public Relations Department Director-General Lt. Gen. Sansern Kaewkamnerd, and National Health Commission Office Deputy Secretary-General Prida Tae-arak were among the participants who exchanged viewpoints from different sectors regarding asbestos.
Dr. Prida said that although the National Health Assembly in 2000 resolved the make Thailand asbestos-free, this resolution has yet to be realized and more cooperation from various sectors is needed. He explained that support is needed from businesses and the public needs to become more informed about asbestos. He expects that some time is needed for the required contributing factors, such as the law and social pressure, to come together properly.
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous silicate minerals, of which there are six types. Asbestos is very heat resistant and was used across the world as a building material for much of the 20th century. It was used in floor tiles, ceiling tiles, and insulators. Inhalation of large amounts of asbestos fibers can lead to various lung conditions, including lung cancer. (NNT)
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