Chiang Rai Enhances Health Monitoring for Arsenic-Contaminated Waterways

CHIANG RAI – Thailand’s Department of Disease Control (DDC) is expanding its health surveillance program to protect residents living near arsenic-contaminated waterways in Chiang Rai province. Health officials are focusing on individuals facing moderate to high risks of chemical exposure along the Kok, Sai, Ruak, and tributary rivers. This second-year campaign now spans 18 districts. The DDC aims to continuously monitor the health status of local residents and detect potential health impacts from arsenic exposure at an early stage. This includes conducting regular health check-ups and providing information on contamination levels to raise public awareness and ensure thorough preventive measures. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element, but under certain geological conditions or due to industrial activities, it can dissolve into water at high concentrations. Northern Thailand, due to its geology, has areas with high arsenic content, posing a risk of contamination to groundwater and river water. Long-term arsenic exposure is known to increase the risk of skin diseases, neurological disorders, and even cancer. Through this surveillance program, the DDC strives to maintain the safety and health of the local community by identifying contaminated areas, assessing exposure levels, and providing appropriate health guidance to residents. Public awareness campaigns and investigations to identify and manage contamination sources are expected to proceed in parallel. The post Health Officials Monitor Arsenic Exposure Risks in Chiang Rai Waterways first appeared on Chiang Rai Times.