Which gas is suspected as the main cause of breathing difficulties?

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Methyl Mercaptan Suspected as Primary Cause of Breathing Difficulties in Pasir Gudang

Methyl mercaptan, also known as methanethiol, is suspected to be the primary gas contributing to the recent wave of breathing difficulties reported by residents in Pasir Gudang. This flammable and toxic substance, along with acrylonitrile and acrolein, was detected in the area. As of the day before the report, 748 cases of breathing difficulties had been recorded, with 709 treated as outpatients and 39 requiring hospitalisation.
Properties and Uses of Detected Gases

Methyl mercaptan, the primary suspect, is a flammable gas that can affect the central nervous system in large quantities. It is industrially used in the production of methionine for animal feed and also finds application in the plastics and pesticide manufacturing industries. Acrylonitrile, another detected gas, is used in the creation of certain plastics and is toxic even at low concentrations. Acrolein, the third gas identified, is primarily used in herbicide production and is known for its irritant properties, affecting the skin, eyes, and nasal passages.
Health Impact and Case Numbers

The presence of these gases, particularly methyl mercaptan, was described as an anomaly with potential adverse effects on children and individuals with pre-existing health conditions like asthma. The scale of the health impact is reflected in the reported figures: a total of 748 individuals experienced breathing difficulties. The majority, 709 cases, were managed through outpatient treatment, indicating less severe immediate symptoms for most affected persons. However, 39 individuals required hospitalisation, highlighting the potential severity of exposure.
Environmental and Developmental Context

The issue in Pasir Gudang is further contextualised by concerns over unsustainable development and the high concentration of chemical industries. This rapid industrialisation has reportedly strained the environment's capacity, impacting air, land, and water quality. The lack of adequate buffer zones between industrial sites and residential or educational areas, such as schools like Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Tanjung Puteri Resort, has exacerbated the risk of chemical exposure for the local population.

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Which gas is suspected as the main cause of breathing difficulties?

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