{
  "id": 8789580,
  "title": "The haze may lift, but its health toll could emerge years later",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/20/the-haze-may-lift-but-its-health-toll-could-emerge-years-later",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-09-20T23:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Malaysia Today",
    "slug": "free-malaysia-today",
    "url": "https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/09/21/the-haze-may-lift-but-its-health-toll-could-emerge-years-later"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The ongoing haze has left air quality unhealthy across several regions in Malaysia, with the Air Pollutant Index (API) in Serian, Sarawak, surpassing 500. As of Sep 15, 40 out of 68 monitoring stations nationwide reported unhealthy air quality, up from 23 the previous day. While the haze may eventually dissipate, experts warn that its health impacts may surface years later. Dr Anand Sachithanandan, president of Lung Cancer Network Malaysia and a cardiothoracic surgeon, emphasizes the importance of addressing the cumulative exposure from repeated haze episodes over the years. Chronic and cumulative exposure to the transboundary regional haze could significantly elevate the risk of lung cancer, even among non-smokers, particularly women. The primary concern is the inhalation of microscopic particles, PM2.5, which can cause chronic inflammation and activate dormant cancer-causing genes in susceptible individuals. While the haze may clear, its effects may linger. For business owners like Farrrah Adeeba, who owns Nasi Lemak Pak Man in Shah Alam, the haze poses challenges for employees who are exposed longer than customers. The eatery's open-concept setup makes it difficult to prevent haze from entering, and the staff's health becomes a top priority. While short-term effects like triggering or worsening asthma and bronchitis are already evident, long-term consequences remain a major concern. Farrrah hopes authorities will provide clear guidelines for businesses to follow during severe air-quality situations, including protective measures for workers. Experts stress that while individuals can take precautionary steps, such as limiting outdoor activities, using masks, staying hydrated, and employing air purifiers, tackling the recurring problem requires strong leadership and political commitment to address the root cause of the haze.",
  "summary": "The annual transboundary haze may increase lung cancer risk, says Lung Cancer Network Malaysia president Dr Anand Sachithanandan.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Free Malaysia Today",
        "title": "The haze may lift, but its health toll could emerge years later",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/20/the-haze-may-lift-but-its-health-toll-could-emerge-years-later-8792903",
        "published": "2026-09-20T23:00:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}