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Newswise — Due to the PM2.5 dust situation in Thailand, which now exceeds the global standard and significantly impacts public health, Chulalongkorn University’s and , , have developed the “POR-DEE” face mask. Designed to reduce the risk of PM2.5 dust exposure, the mask was produced in collaboration with . Manufactured to international standards it provides an effective solution to help protect against PM2.5 dust at an affordable price. After deducting expenses from the sale, proceeds will be donated to Chulalongkorn Hospital and the Faculty of Medicine for medical activities. 

PM2.5 Dust is More Dangerous Than You Think, Experts Warn 

According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanchai Sittipunt, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Chulalongkorn University and Director of Chulalongkorn Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, a specialist in respiratory diseases, PM2.5 dust poses severe health risks, both short-term and long-term. In the short term, it can cause irritation, coughing, and sneezing. People with pre-existing conditions, such as asthma or heart disease, may experience worsening symptoms. Long-term exposure can lead to respiratory diseases, such as lung cancer. 

“When the small molecules of PM2.5 reach the lungs, they can spread throughout the body, causing chronic inflammation in blood vessels. There’s also evidence suggesting that it can trigger diabetes, osteoporosis, and cognitive decline. If people can’t avoid PM2.5 environments, they need to find ways to protect themselves, which is why we have developed the ‘POR-DEE’ mask. This high-quality mask can block up to 99% of PM2.5 dust to help people live more safely,” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanchai. 

Dr. Teerapon Tanomsakyu, Executive Chairman of CP’s Organizational Sustainability and Strategy Development Group, stated that CP has been steadfast in its support for public health issues. During the COVID-19 crisis, CP established a factory to produce face masks, distributing over 89 million masks free of charge to hospitals, medical personnel, and vulnerable groups. Now, CP has expanded its efforts with the “POR-DEE” mask, which has been designed under medical supervision to meet the highest standards, available at an affordable price. Proceeds after expenses are deducted will go back to Chulalongkorn Hospital. 

“POR-DEE” Innovation: Comfortable, Protects 99% Against Dust 

Prof. Dr. Rungsun Rerknimitr, Assistant to the President for Innovation and Director of the Medical Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, explained that regular face masks can’t effectively protect against PM2.5 dust. While N95 masks are effective in blocking PM2.5 dust, they may be uncomfortable, inconvenient, available in only one size, and are priced beyond the reach of most people, as they are designed more to protect against pathogens than dust. 

“The ‘POR-DEE’ mask, designed by the at the Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, comes in four sizes: S, M, L, and XL. It fits the facial structure of Thai people, from children to adults, and is tailored for both men and women. The mask is designed to be snug yet allows users to breathe and speak easily without discomfort. It also provides dust protection close to that of N95 masks, with soft ear straps to reduce pressure and irritation, making it comfortable to wear for long periods,” said Prof. Dr. Rungsun. 

Mr. Phumichai Traidolanant, Managing Director of CP Social Impact Company, added that the “POR-DEE” mask filters up to 99% of PM2.5 dust, with a 4-layer structure that has passed Particle Filtration Efficiency (PFE) testing according to international standards. A key feature of the “POR-DEE” mask is that it fits the faces of Thai and Asian people, ensuring comfort even during daily activities, including exercise, while reducing gaps where dust can enter, ensuring maximum protection for users. 

The “POR-DEE” mask is available for purchase at Chulacare shops at Chulalongkorn Hospital, Thai Red Cross Society, for 75 Baht per box (5 masks per box). Proceeds after expenses will be donated to Chulalongkorn Hospital and the Faculty of Medicine at Chulalongkorn University.