Impact of Environmental Cadmium Contamination on the Residents in Mae Sot District, Tak Province - ผลกระทบต่อประชาชนจากสถานการณ์การปนเปื้อนแคดเมียมในสิ่งแวดล้อม ของพื้นทีอำเภอแม่สอด จังหวัดตาก

Abstract

            The objective of this study was to assess the perspective on environmental cadmium (Cd) contamination of population living in Mae Sot, Tak province. Information was obtained from 365 local residents through an interview in February, 2014. The results revealed that 66, 60 and 76 percent of study population believed the Cd contaminated situation impacted themselves, their family and their neighbor respectively. The most common impact on themselves was the development of illness or disease. The commonly reported impacts on family were an illness concern and a reduction in household income. For impacts on neighbors, the most common one was occupational impact that people were required to change occupation and also an increase in expenses due to the requirement to purchase drinking water and Cd-free vegetable from other areas. Considering previous solutions provided by the government, 66% of the population were aware of the solutions provided by the government such as monetary compensation,
alternative corps promotion campaign and urinary cadmium monitoring. The study populations believe that free medical examination or medical care could solve the problems. This study reflects the viewpoints of population living in the Cd contaminated area on household economy, health and an acknowledgment of previous solutions provided by the government. Relevant organizations should considered using this information in the future.

Key words: impact, cadmium contamination, Mae Sot District