Preventive Behaviors against PM10 Exposure in Kitchens of Rural Thai Households using Charcoal for Cooking

Indoor air pollution from particulate matter (PM10) poses a considerable public health hazard, especially in rural areas where traditional cooking fuels like charcoal are prevalent. The objective of this study was to assess preventive behaviors against PM10 exposure among households using charcoal for cooking in rural Thailand. A cross-sectional descriptive survey involving 400 participants from 13 rural Thai communities revealed excessive PM₁₀ levels and highlighted the limited information available on effective preventive measures. Descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage, were used for data analysis. Binary logistic regression was employed to determine the correlation between various factors and levels of PM10 preventative behaviors. Ninety-eight point three percent of participants exhibited majority understanding of PM10 preventive behavior; however, deficiencies persisted in several domains, including comprehension of particle size and the implications of ventilation. Despite this awareness, preventative measures were largely inappropriate (84.0%), with only 14.8% exhibiting effective protective behaviors. The primary preventive strategy was the consistent use of air purifiers (67.2%), while essential practices such as avoiding burning sites, thorough post-exposure cleaning, maintaining household hygiene, and undergoing annual physical examinations were rarely implemented. Association analysis indicated that individuals with congenital illnesses exhibited a substantially higher propensity to undertake high-level PM10 preventative actions (aOR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.12–2.63, p = 0.013). The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions, including community education, behavioral incentive strategies, and structural modifications such as improved kitchen ventilation.