The recent deaths of a Thai singer and a Singaporean tourist after visits to massage parlours in Thailand have triggered widespread concern and caution from medical professionals.
Chayada Prao-hom, a 20-year-old singer, passed away in a hospital in Udon Thani on Sunday. She had sought massages for shoulder pain since October. In a 6 November Facebook post, Chayada mentioned suffering from numbness and paralysis after undergoing neck twist and deep-tissue massages. Despite her hopes of recovery, her condition worsened, leading to blood infection and brain swelling, according to hospital reports.
Authorities confirmed that the massage parlour and masseuses involved had valid licences. Investigations are ongoing to determine if her death was directly linked to the massages or underlying medical issues.
In a separate incident, Lee Mun Tuk, a 52-year-old Singaporean tourist, died in Phuket shortly after a 45-minute oil massage at a parlour on Patong Beach. According to police, Lee fell asleep during the massage but later exhibited signs of distress. His wife declined an autopsy, opting to take his body home for funeral arrangements.
Both incidents have led to renewed warnings from health experts about the potential risks associated with certain massage techniques, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
