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Tsakiris P, Damalas CA, Koutroubas SD. Risk perception and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in pesticide use: does risk shape farmers' safety behavior? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38803231 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2024.2359076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Risk perception and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in pesticide use were studied in 109 farmers of northern Greece. Farmers differed in the levels of pesticide risk perception, with 26.6% showing very low and low levels, 34.9% showing moderate levels, and 38.5% showing high and very high levels. Pesticide risk perception was positively correlated with education and large cultivated area, but negatively with age and non-farming as a main profession. Most farmers (82.6%) showed adequate use of PPE (mostly face mask and gloves). The use of PPE was positively correlated with education and risk perception, but negatively with age and non-farming as a main profession. Farmers with high levels of risk perception used 1.3 and 2.6 times more PPE items than those with moderate and low levels of risk perception, respectively. High education was a positive predictor, whereas main profession other than farming was a negative predictor of PPE use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Tsakiris
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Christos A Damalas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Spyridon D Koutroubas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
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Kangavari M, Sarvi M, Afshari M, Maleki S. Understanding determinants related to farmers' protective measures towards pesticide exposure: A systematic review. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298450. [PMID: 38359033 PMCID: PMC10868758 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pesticide poisoning is the main cause of adverse effects and mortality worldwide. Protective measures can reduce the intensity of the effects of pesticides on the health of farmers. Numerous cross-sectional studies have been conducted on the determinants of performing protective measures to reduce exposure to pesticides, but there is no systematic study that comprehensively examines the impact of these factors. Therefore, the aim of this study is to identify existing studies on the determinants of effective protective measures to reduce exposure to pesticides among farmers. METHODS In this systematic review, studies were obtained from PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases using a search strategy that covered articles from the first years of database design to April 20, 2023. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were based on the PICOs criteria. The study included cross-sectional studies that measured the implementation of protective measures using objective or valid subjective tools. The data were extracted and analyzed based on several criteria and ecological levels. The Ecological Model of Health Behavior was used to classify the determinants that affect the performance of protective behaviors. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) has developed a quality assessment tool for studies. RESULTS A total of 39 studies were ultimately selected for inclusion in this analysis. Many of these studies were conducted in developing countries. The most important factors that have an impact on protective measures include a variety of socio-demographic characteristics (age, gender, level of education, income, farming experience, experience of using pesticides), individual level (knowledge, attitude, risk perception, intention), interpersonal level (subjective norms), organizational level (education), and public policy level (government attention, health costs, governmental extension services). The quality of most studies was fair. CONCLUSIONS Research indicates that several factors influence the use of personal protective equipment and safe behaviors when handling pesticides. These include farmers' education level, knowledge, and attitudes towards safety measures. Environmental factors such as access to information, extension services, training programs, and media coverage can also help minimize exposure to pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Kangavari
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Sarvi
- Department of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Maryam Afshari
- Department of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Research Center for Health Sciences, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Shahnaz Maleki
- Department of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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Bhandari G, Chiaia-Hernández AC, Atreya K, Geissen V, Singh SP. Knowledge and practices of commercial banana farmers related to pesticide use in Chitwan district, Nepal; a cross-sectional study and meta-analyses. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1490. [PMID: 37978088 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-12093-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The exposure of farmers to pesticides due to inadequate safety measures is a concern in low-income countries in Africa and Asia. However, until now, there have been limited studies on the farmers' risk due to pesticide application to fruit crops. The knowledge of farmers' exposure related to pesticide use and their safety practices was studied among 100 banana farmers in three areas (Padampur, Jagatpur, and Thimura) of Chitwan district, Nepal. More than 75% of the farmers complained about problems related to insects. Most frequently used insecticides in the area were chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin. Ten percent (10%) of the applied pesticides were highly hazardous to humans, according to the World Health Organization hazard category, with skin rash being the most common acute symptom reported by 29% of the farmers. Banned organochlorine and organophosphate insecticides, such as endosulfan and triazophos, respectively, are still being used by farmers in the aforementioned areas. Spearman's correlation analysis revealed the lack of knowledge and safety practices among farmers leading to inadequate awareness related to the negative effects of pesticide use on human health and the environment. Therefore, government extension service can play a crucial role in improving banana farmers' knowledge of the toxic effects of pesticides as well as enforcing the Nepali language in the labeling of pesticide containers and packages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Govinda Bhandari
- Progressive Sustainable Developers Nepal (PSD-Nepal), Kathmandu, Nepal.
| | - Aurea C Chiaia-Hernández
- Institute of Geography & Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Kishor Atreya
- School of Forestry and Natural Resources Management, Institute of Forestry, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Department of Watershed Management and Environmental Science, Institute of Forestry (Pokhara Campus), Tribhuvan University, Pokhara, Nepal
| | - Violette Geissen
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sheelendra Pratap Singh
- Toxicokinetics laboratory, ASSIST Group, CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow, India
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Tsakiris P, Damalas CA, Koutroubas SD. Safety behavior in pesticide use among farmers of northern Greece: the role of information sources. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2023; 79:4335-4342. [PMID: 37380619 DOI: 10.1002/ps.7632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Farmers' compliance with common safety practices in pesticide use (i.e., keeping records of pesticide applications, reading the information of pesticide labels, and taking protective measures during pesticide handling) and the use of information sources about pesticides were studied in a simple random sample of farmers in Evros Province, northern Greece. RESULTS According to the three common safety practices considered in the study, most farmers (56.9%) complied with safety practices. Nevertheless, a noticeable proportion of the farmers never kept records of pesticide applications (33.9%), never read the information of pesticide labels (20.2%), and never took protective measures during pesticide handling (24.8%). Farmers reported using up to six different sources of information about pesticides, but the majority (51.4%) reported using up to one source and almost one-third (33.9%) relied on own sources. The most common information source about pesticides was the staff of the agricultural supply stores, used by 88.1% of the farmers. Safety behavior was positively correlated with total sources of information (P < 0.01) and information by the agricultural supply stores (P < 0.01). Multiple regression analysis showed that safety behavior was reduced in females, whereas it was increased in farmers with high education, high number of plots, and high level of information sources. CONCLUSION Despite good levels of safety behavior by most farmers, keeping records of sprayings should be improved. Using multiple information sources about pesticides is crucial to improve safety behavior of farmers. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Tsakiris
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Christos A Damalas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Spyridon D Koutroubas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
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Mu H, Yang X, Wang K, Tang D, Xu W, Liu X, Ritsema CJ, Geissen V. Ecological risk assessment of pesticides on soil biota: An integrated field-modelling approach. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 326:138428. [PMID: 36958499 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Pesticide residues in soils can cause negative impacts on soil health as well as soil biota. However, research related to the toxicity and exposure risks of pesticides to soil biota are scarce, especially in the North China Plain (NCP) where pesticides are intensively applied. In this study, the occurrence and distribution of 15 commonly used pesticides in 41 fields in Quzhou county in the NCP were determined during the growing season in 2020. The ecological risks of pesticides to the soil biota, including earthworms, enchytraeids, springtails, mites and nitrogen mineralization microorganisms, were assessed using toxicity exposure ratios (TERs) and risk quotient (RQ) methods. Based on pesticide detection rates and RQs, pesticide hazards were ranked using the Hasse diagram. The results showed that pesticides were concentrated in the 0-2 cm soil depth. Chlorantraniliprole was the most frequently detected pesticide with a detection rate of 37%, while the highest concentration of 1.85 mg kg-1 was found for carbendazim in apple orchards. Chlorpyrifos, carbendazim and imidacloprid posed a chronic exposure risk to E. fetida, F. candida and E. crypticus with the TERs exceeding the trigger value. Pesticide mixtures posed ecological risks to soil biota in 70% of the investigated sites. 47.5% of samples were ranked as high-risk, with the maximum RQ exceeding 490. According to the Hasse diagram, abamectin, tebuconazole, chlorantraniliprole and chlorpyrifos were ranked as the most hazardous pesticides for soil biota in the study region, indicating that alternative methods of pest management need to be considered. Therefore, practical risk mitigation solutions are recommended, in which the use of hazardous pesticides would be replaced with low-risk pesticides with similar functions from the Hasse diagram, or with biopesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyu Mu
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, 6700, AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands; College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, National Academy of Agriculture Green Development, Key Laboratory of Plant-Soil Interactions of Ministry of Education, National Observation and Research Station of Agriculture Green Development (Quzhou, Hebei), China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xiaomei Yang
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, 6700, AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands; College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Northwest A&F University, 712100, Yangling, China.
| | - Kai Wang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, National Academy of Agriculture Green Development, Key Laboratory of Plant-Soil Interactions of Ministry of Education, National Observation and Research Station of Agriculture Green Development (Quzhou, Hebei), China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Darrell Tang
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, 6700, AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Wen Xu
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, National Academy of Agriculture Green Development, Key Laboratory of Plant-Soil Interactions of Ministry of Education, National Observation and Research Station of Agriculture Green Development (Quzhou, Hebei), China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xuejun Liu
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, National Academy of Agriculture Green Development, Key Laboratory of Plant-Soil Interactions of Ministry of Education, National Observation and Research Station of Agriculture Green Development (Quzhou, Hebei), China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Coen J Ritsema
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, 6700, AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Violette Geissen
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, 6700, AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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Liem JF, Subekti I, Mansyur M, Soemarko DS, Kekalih A, Suyatna FD, Suryandari DA, Malik SG, Pangaribuan B. The determinants of thyroid function among vegetable farmers with primary exposure to chlorpyrifos: A cross-sectional study in Central Java, Indonesia. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16435. [PMID: 37251483 PMCID: PMC10220374 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Occupational pesticide exposure, chlorpyrifos (CPF) in particular, may adversely affect the thyroid. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the determinants of thyroid function as indicated by the serum concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) among Indonesian vegetable farmers with primary exposure to CPF. Methods A total of 151 vegetable farmers participated in this study. The sociodemographic and occupational characteristics of the participants were obtained using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. A validated quantitative method was used to estimate the cumulative exposure level (CEL). Serum TSH, thyroglobulin (Tg), free thyroxine (FT4), and urinary iodine excretion (UIE) were measured in the laboratory. The difference in TSH concentrations according to CEL and other characteristics were analysed using the Mann-Whitney U test. A multiple linear regression model was used to evaluate the potential determinants of TSH. Results The mean age was 50 (SD 9.4) years. The median concentrations of TSH, FT4, and Tg/FT4 ratio were 1.46 mIU/L, 1.17 ng/dL, and 6.23 × 102, respectively. We observed that higher TSH concentrations were found among those with a higher Tg/FT4 ratio, were classified as high CEL, and had lower UIE or FT4. Conclusions Our findings show that Tg/FT4 ratio, CEL, FT4, UIE concentrations, and post-spraying days were determinants of TSH concentrations among farmers with primary exposure to CPF. These results indicate that farmers are exposed to agents with thyroid-disrupting properties, thus supporting previous evidence showing the potential for thyroid disorders in agricultural populations exposed to pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen Fuk Liem
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitas Kristen Krida Wacana, Kota Jakarta Barat, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia
- Doctoral Program, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Kota Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Imam Subekti
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Kota Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Muchtaruddin Mansyur
- Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Kota Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Dewi S. Soemarko
- Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Kota Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Aria Kekalih
- Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Kota Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Franciscus D. Suyatna
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Kota Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Dwi A. Suryandari
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Kota Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Safarina G. Malik
- Eijkman Institute for Molecular Biology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Kota Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Bertha Pangaribuan
- Prodia Occupational Health Indonesia, Kota Jakarta Pusat, DKI Jakarta, Indonesia
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Ho YB. Exposures of Pesticides and Health Impact on the Agricultural (Paddy) Community in Malaysia. MALAYSIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES 2023; 19:1-4. [DOI: 10.47836/mjmhs.19.3.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
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Li J, Jiang R, Tang X. Assessing psychological factors on farmers' intention to apply organic manure: an application of extended theory of planned behavior. ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY 2022; 26:1-25. [PMID: 36570521 PMCID: PMC9759063 DOI: 10.1007/s10668-022-02829-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Different from the previous studies on social and economic impacts, this study focused on the assessment of psychological factors on farmers' application of organic manure. We explored the psychological evaluation based on the extended theory of planned behavior (TPB), which consists of attitude (AT), perceived behavior control (PBC), subjective norm, moral norm (MN), environmental risk perception (ERP), and perceived policy effectiveness (PPE). Further, we explored the moderating effects of PPE. We studied 235 tea growers in China to verify the model and analyzed the psychological factors in their decisions regarding organic manure application. The results showed that by incorporating psychological factors, such as MN, ERP, and PPE, the extended TPB's ability to explain farmers' intention to apply organic manure increased by 6%. The results also confirmed that psychological factors (ERP, PPE, AT, PBC, and MN) positively influenced farmers' inclination to use organic manure. Finally, PPE was found to have a negative mediating effect on attitude and intention. Given the influence of these psychological factors (PBC, ERP, and PPE), we discovered that increasing the policy publicity, raising the policy subsidy, and promoting the popularization of sustainable agriculture and environmental awareness, are essential to encourage farmers' utilization of organic manure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- School of Management, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing, 210003 China
| | - Rui Jiang
- School of Information Management, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210031 China
| | - Xueyu Tang
- School of Information Management, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210031 China
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Park E, Lee J, Lee HS, Kim JH, Shin Y. Simple and rapid method for 336 multiresidual pesticide analysis in saliva, determination of their chemical stabilities, and biomonitoring of farmers. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 309:136725. [PMID: 36208804 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Simultaneous multiresidual pesticide analysis of saliva samples was performed using scaled-down QuEChERS extraction with LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS. The optimum extraction procedure using acidified acetonitrile was applicable to 336 pesticides (287 for LC-MS/MS and 49 for GC-MS/MS). To determine pesticide multiresidues in saliva, 100 μL of the sample was extracted with 200 μL of 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile, and the initial extract was partitioned with 40 mg of MgSO4 and 10 mg of NaCl. The organic supernatants (120 μL) were then mixed with acetonitrile (30 μL) for matrix-matching (4:1, v/v), and the final extract solution was injected into the LC-MS/MS (4 μL) and GC-MS/MS (2 μL) systems. The established analytical method showed a good LOQs between 5 and 25 ng/mL with reliable accuracy/precision values and recovery results (50-140%) for the target pesticides. Under the two different storage conditions, most of the analytes did not undergo chemical changes in the saliva samples, whereas some pesticides were more stable in freeze-thaw processes than those left at room temperature. Biomonitoring of farmers (ten mixers and ten sprayers) was successfully applied using the validated method, and two carbamates (fenobucarb and propamocarb) were determined at trace concentrations (12.5-675.0 ng/mL from 11 positively detected samples).
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunyoung Park
- Pesticide Chemistry and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jiho Lee
- Pesticide Chemistry and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Suk Lee
- Drug Metabolism and Bioanalysis Laboratory, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Han Kim
- Pesticide Chemistry and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongho Shin
- Department of Applied Biology, College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea.
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Saraji M, Talebi K, Balali-Mood M, Imani S. Urinary metabolites of diazinon and chlorpyrifos in sprayer operators and farm workers of a potato farm. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART. B, PESTICIDES, FOOD CONTAMINANTS, AND AGRICULTURAL WASTES 2022; 57:745-755. [PMID: 36048024 DOI: 10.1080/03601234.2022.2111152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In order to investigate the effect of diazinon and chlorpyrifos on agricultural workers exposed to pesticides, urinary metabolites 2-Isopropyl-6-methyl-4-pyrimidinol (IMPy) and 3,5,6-Trichloro-2-pyridinol (TPCy) in farm workers, sprayer operators, and non-exposed people as a control group were measured. The modified QuEChERS method was applied to extract samples and was measured using a gas chromatograph/nitrogen-phosphorus detector. The obtained results showed that the median concentrations of TCPy were 36.92-547.7 and 7.7-49.58 ng/mL for sprayer operators and farm workers, respectively. Moreover, the median concentrations of IMPy were 81.66-593.1 ng/mL for sprayer operators and 40.6-66.1 ng/mL for farm workers. The control group had no measurable metabolites. The IMPy level of 60% of sprayer operators was significantly higher (P ˂ 0.05) than the TCPy level. The analysis of variance highlighted the significant relationship (P ˂ 0.05) between the levels of each metabolite and the use of safety gloves, respiratory masks, safety goggles, working time per week, and type of insecticide exposure. Our findings revealed the need to measure the urinary metabolites of these insecticides in other exposed workers. Also, workers should be taught the impact of using personal protective equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdiyar Saraji
- Department of Plant Protection, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khalil Talebi
- Department of Plant Protection, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mahdi Balali-Mood
- Medical Toxicology and Drug Abuse Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Sohrab Imani
- Department of Plant Protection, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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Attitudinal behaviour of agriculturalists towards pesticide use in Pir Panjal Range of Kashmir Himalayas. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2022; 95:1859-1870. [PMID: 35624173 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-022-01881-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attainment of safety during pesticide spraying relies on the farmer's knowledge of pesticide use, attitude and sense of safety. However, such investigations are insufficient in the current study area. METHODS The study is based on a primary survey of 384 orchardists about the myriad of aspects affecting the use of pesticides and their subsequent effects. RESULTS The study revealed that knowledge, attitude, and perception had a weighted average index (WAI) and a standard deviation (SD) of 2.85 ± 1.17, 3.55 ± 1.34, and 3.81 ± 0.98 correspondingly. The findings reflect the farmers have a low to moderate level of knowledge, a moderate attitude toward pesticides, and a favourable perception on their utilization. Thus, for farmer personal protective equipment (PPE) use, it scored 2.77 ± 0.90 on the WAI scale, indicating that most farmers use PPEs 'rarely to occasionally' and that none use full protective gear. Furthermore, attitude and PPE usage exhibited a negative relationship with age, as younger people use PPE more than older ones. The findings were consistent for both farming experience and PPE usage. Moreover, there exists a positive association between age with perception and farming experience, knowledge with perception and PPE use, and attitude with perception. CONCLUSIONS The coefficient of determination (R2) shows that 67.2% of the variability in farmers' PPE use was attributed to factors including knowledge, attitude, perception, and education. A favorable behavioral shift in pesticide usage may be achieved by enhancing farmers' knowledge, attitudes and perceptions, and adequate PPE usage.
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Lud D, Schwemm A, Kalandadze B, Babaev E, Simon MP, Weller P, Düring RA. Pesticide handling and waste management: a case study on DDT and HCHs from the Southern Caucasus. SN APPLIED SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42452-022-04999-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
This study presents a survey on pesticide use, pesticide storage and pesticide disposal among 100 residents near a former pesticide store in rural Georgia using a standardized paper questionnaire. More than one quarter of the participants responded that the age of the pesticides they use is higher than 20 years. Based on this finding, it cannot be excluded that persistent organic pollutants like Dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane and hexachlorocyclohexanes still are released to the environment. Knowledge about active ingredients of pesticides is lacking among farmers: More than two thirds state that they know the active ingredients, while less than 10% mention an active ingredient matching the brand name they report. Purchasing pesticides in containers without labels appears to be common practice. Information about the pesticides is mainly obtained from the pesticide retailer, while the label is less important as a source of information. More than 95% of the participants store the pesticides in a separate store, but appropriate possibilities of hazardous waste disposal seem to be insufficient in rural areas in the region. The finding that pesticides are purchased and stored in repacked secondary containers, poses direct risks and hampers communication of risks to users. Improving (implementation of) regulations for pesticide handling and strengthening local knowledge through better vocational training can improve soil and groundwater protection and sustainable use of resources.
Article highlights
One of the main findings is that residents report using the pesticides for a long time. Not only are the pesticides used way longer than they may remain suitable for use, but also the pesticides could be dating from before international legislation entered into force which was set up to protect from long-lived organic pollutants (the Stockholm Convention). Our results show that often pesticides are repacked and stored in alternative containers such as plastic containers for detergents. This means users cannot find important information on how to use pesticides safely on these alternative containers. The label cannot be used as a source of information for example regarding health risks. This may lead to poisoning of users.
In Georgia, the transition process results in poor implementation of environmental regulations such as laws about waste management. The results show that educational level has a positive influence on choosing safe storage options such as a separate store. The results indicate that especially in rural areas possibilities of proper disposal of old pesticides or other dangerous chemicals are poor. This has implications for the health of residents.
Efforts to better implement environmental regulations should be strengthened especially in rural areas to overcome the legacy of long-lived pesticides which are now banned. Old pesticides might still be in use because they are difficult to dispose of safely.
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Osaili TM, Al Sallagi M, Dhanasekaran D, Bani Odeh W, Al Ali H, Al Ali A, Radwan H, Obaid R, Holley R. Pesticide residues in fresh vegetables imported into the United Arab Emirates. Food Control 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2021.108663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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14
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Istriningsih, Dewi YA, Yulianti A, Hanifah VW, Jamal E, Dadang, Sarwani M, Mardiharini M, Anugrah IS, Darwis V, Suib E, Herteddy D, Sutriadi MT, Kurnia A, Harsanti ES. Farmers' knowledge and practice regarding good agricultural practices (GAP) on safe pesticide usage in Indonesia. Heliyon 2022; 8:e08708. [PMID: 35036601 PMCID: PMC8753126 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e08708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Synthetic pesticides are widely applied for pest and disease control in Indonesia. However, a lack of knowledge and use of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for safe pesticide usage among Indonesian farmers remains a problem. This study aims to investigate the gap between farmers' knowledge of GAP for safe pesticide usage and their application of it. This research was conducted in 2020 in five Indonesian provinces. Primary data collection was by means of a survey, in which 298 respondents answered structured questionnaires. The survey also identified the sources of the information recorded and the respondents’ experience of pesticide exposure. The analysis tools used were the Wilcoxon Signed Ranked Test and Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA). There were significant differences in the results of the first analysis. These results appear to confirm the results of further analysis using IPA, which show that a high level of knowledge does not mean that farmers will apply this knowledge in practice: this is particularly relevant to wearing gloves and masks, using tools to remove blockages, never clearing blocked nozzles by blowing into them, and disposing of empty containers properly. Nevertheless, in some cases high levels of knowledge do result in high levels of application. Cases of pesticide exposure affecting human health by causing symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting confirm that GAP for pesticide usage are not being implemented properly by some farmers. It is therefore recommended that their knowledge should be enhanced through the series of technical training programs using participatory approaches, so that farmers accumulate knowledge which will drive them to adopt GAP for safe pesticide usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Istriningsih
- Indonesian Institute for Agricultural Technology Transfer, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Yovita Anggita Dewi
- Indonesian Center for Agricultural Technology Assessment and Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Astrina Yulianti
- Indonesian Center for Agricultural Technology Assessment and Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Vyta W Hanifah
- Indonesian Center for Agricultural Technology Assessment and Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Erizal Jamal
- Center for Plant Variety Protection and Agricultural Licensing, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Dadang
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, IPB University, Indonesia
| | - Muhrizal Sarwani
- Indonesian Center for Agricultural Land Resources Research and Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Maesti Mardiharini
- Indonesian Center for Agricultural Technology Assessment and Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Iwan Setiajie Anugrah
- Indonesian Center for Agricultural Socio Economic and Policy Studies, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Valeriana Darwis
- Indonesian Center for Agricultural Socio Economic and Policy Studies, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Ewin Suib
- Center for Plant Variety Protection and Agricultural Licensing, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Dwi Herteddy
- Center for Plant Variety Protection and Agricultural Licensing, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Mas Teddy Sutriadi
- Indonesian Agricultural Environment Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
| | - Asep Kurnia
- Indonesian Agricultural Environment Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Indonesia
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15
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Mahdavi V, Eslami Z, Molaee-Aghaee E, Peivasteh-Roudsari L, Sadighara P, Thai VN, Fakhri Y, Ravanlou AA. Evaluation of pesticide residues and risk assessment in apple and grape from western Azerbaijan Province of Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 203:111882. [PMID: 34390713 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
West Azerbaijan, especially the city of Urmia, is the center of Iranian apple and grape production hence the importance of this, residues of 85 pesticides in these products were investigated using modified QuEChERS extraction followed by UHPLC-MS/MS technique. Residues of 17 different pesticides detected in some apple samples. In grape sample only 7 pesticides detected. The levels of the residues found in all apple and grape samples were below the maximum residue levels (MRLs) of Iran, except for iprodione. Health risk assessment associated with pesticide residues in apples and grapes were estimated by hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI), which indicated that the HI value was lower than 1 in adults and children due to apple and consumption. HI in adults and children were 0.012 and 0.054 in apple; 0.001 and 0.003 in grape samples, respectively. Although the health risk assessment showed that the consumers are not at considerable risk but due to pesticide residue, implement control plans to manage the proper application of this pesticide, or replace it with safer alternatives in apple and grape is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahideh Mahdavi
- Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection (IRIPP), Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), P.O. Box 1475744741, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zahra Eslami
- Young Researchers and Elites Club, North Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Molaee-Aghaee
- Food Safety and Hygiene Division, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Peivasteh-Roudsari
- Food Safety and Hygiene Division, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Halal Research Center of IRI, Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Sadighara
- Food Safety and Hygiene Division, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Van Nam Thai
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HUTECH) 475A, Dien Bien Phu, Ward 25, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Yadolah Fakhri
- Food Health Research Center, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran.
| | - Abbas Ali Ravanlou
- Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection (IRIPP), Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), P.O. Box 1475744741, Tehran, Iran
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16
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Sumudumali RGI, Jayawardana JMCK, Piyathilake IDUH, Randika JLPC, Udayakumara EPN, Gunatilake SK, Malavipathirana S. What drives the pesticide user practices among farmers in tropical regions? A case study in Sri Lanka. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2021; 193:860. [PMID: 34859294 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-021-09611-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Pesticides are widely used in tropical regions of the world, and therefore explorations of user practices and drivers of pesticide usage among farmers are important for sustainable agriculture. Therefore, perceptions, knowledge, and drivers leading to the practices of pesticide use among farmers were explored using a semi-structured questionnaire survey using 246 farmers in upcountry vegetable growing areas and low country field crop cultivation areas in tropical Sri Lanka. The study revealed a significant increase in pesticide usage in upcountry vegetable growing areas. The differences in pesticide user practices; adulteration of pesticides prior to application (χ2 = 11.201, p < 0.05), environmental and occupational safety (χ2 = 5.556, p < 0.05), adoption of chemical pesticide reduction methods (χ2 = 12.452, p < 0.05) and received training on effective use of pesticides (χ2 = 9.427, p < 0.05). Several reasons of misuse of pesticides by farmers were identified. Among them, lack of technical knowledge on pesticide application and integrated pest management (IPM) practices were the main courses. Most of the farmers tend to use pesticides as a precautionary safety measure before any pest or disease symptoms emerge. Further, pesticide retailers had a strong influence on the selection of pesticides by farmers suggesting that agro-marketing has a significant influence over pesticide usage among farmers. The canonical correspondence analysis indicates that farmers' knowledge of the correct handling of pesticides were positively influenced by the farmers' level of education and training received on pesticide usage (p < 0.05). The study suggests the importance of training, extension services and farmer education to improve the levels of knowledge and awareness of farmers on the risks of pesticides to human health and environmental pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- R G I Sumudumali
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, Sri Lanka
| | - J M C K Jayawardana
- Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, Sri Lanka.
| | - I D U H Piyathilake
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, Sri Lanka
| | - J L P C Randika
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, Sri Lanka
| | - E P N Udayakumara
- Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, Sri Lanka
| | - S K Gunatilake
- Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, Sri Lanka
| | - S Malavipathirana
- Department of Physical Science and Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya, Sri Lanka
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17
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Bondori A, Bagheri A, Sookhtanlou M, Damalas CA. Modeling farmers' intention for safe pesticide use: the role of risk perception and use of information sources. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:66677-66686. [PMID: 34235696 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15266-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Intention for safe pesticide use plays a crucial role in the mode of pesticide spraying, but several factors are involved in the formation of intention by farmers. This work focused on the levels of farmers' perception of pesticide risks (i.e., toxicity levels, health, and environmental effects) and utilization of information sources and examined their impact on intention for safe pesticide use in rural Iran. Most farmers (53%) showed low levels of risk perception by pesticide use and reported poor use of the available information sources about pesticides. Pesticide retailers were mentioned as the primary information point of farmers. In addition, almost half of the farmers (49.2%) expressed worryingly negative intention for safe pesticide use. Perception of pesticide risks and utilization of information sources were significantly correlated with age and spraying experience (P < 0.01), while intention for safe pesticide use was significantly correlated with farming experience (P < 0.05) and spraying experience (P < 0.05). Analysis with structural equation modeling showed that perception of pesticide risks and use of information sources together explained 80% of the variability in farmers' intention. Moreover, perception of pesticide risks (P < 0.01) and employment of information sources (P < 0.05) had a positive relationship with intention for safe handling of pesticides, thus showing a predictive link with intention. Therefore, promoting farmers' perception of pesticide risks and providing credible information sources are essential for improving intention for safe pesticide use among farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abolmohammad Bondori
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Asghar Bagheri
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
| | - Mojtaba Sookhtanlou
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Christos A Damalas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece.
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18
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Bhandari G, Atreya K, Vašíčková J, Yang X, Geissen V. Ecological risk assessment of pesticide residues in soils from vegetable production areas: A case study in S-Nepal. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 788:147921. [PMID: 34134388 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Pesticides pose a serious risk to ecosystems. In this study, we used European Food Safety Authority methods, such as risk quotient (RQ) and toxicity exposure ratios (TER), to assess the potential ecological risks of 15 pesticide residues detected in agricultural soils in the Gaidahawa Rural Municipality of Nepal. The mean and maximum concentrations of the detected pesticide residues in the soil were used for risk characterization related to soil organisms. RQmean, TERmean and RQmaximum, TERmaximum were used to determine general and the worst-case scenarios, respectively. Of all the detected pesticides in soils, the no observed effect concentration (NOEC) for 27% of the pesticides was not available in literature for the tested soil organisms and their TER and RQ could not be calculated. RQ threshold value of ≥1 indicates high risk for organisms. Similarly, TER threshold value of ≥5, which is acceptable trigger point value for chronic exposure, indicates an acceptable risk. The results showed that the worst-case scenario (RQmaximum) indicated a high risk for soil organisms from chlorpyrifos [RQmaximum > 9 at depths (cm) of 0-5, 15-20 and 35-40 soil layer]; imidacloprid (1.78 in the 35-40 cm soil layer) and profenofos (3.37 in the 0-5 cm and 1.09 in the 35-40 cm soil layer). Likewise, for all the soil depths, the calculated TER for both the general and worst-case scenarios for chlorpyrifos ranged from 0.37 to 3.22, indicating chronic toxicity to F. candida. Furthermore, the risk of organophosphate pesticides for soil organisms in the sampling sites was mainly due to chlorpyrifos, except for two study sites where the risk was from profenofos. Ecological risk assessment (EcoRA) of the pesticide use in the study area indicated that the EFSA soil organisms were at risk at some of the localities where farmers practiced conventional farming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Govinda Bhandari
- Soil Physics and Land Management (SLM), Wageningen University and Research, the Netherlands; Progressive Sustainable Developers Nepal (PSD-Nepal), P.O. Box 23883, Kathmandu 31, Nepal.
| | - Kishor Atreya
- School of Forestry and Natural Resource Management, Institute of Forestry (IOF), Tribhuvan University (TU), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Jana Vašíčková
- Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Masaryk University, Czech Republic
| | - Xiaomei Yang
- Soil Physics and Land Management (SLM), Wageningen University and Research, the Netherlands; College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, 712100 Yangling, China
| | - Violette Geissen
- Soil Physics and Land Management (SLM), Wageningen University and Research, the Netherlands
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19
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Liem JF, Mansyur M, Soemarko DS, Kekalih A, Subekti I, Suyatna FD, Suryandari DA, Malik SG, Pangaribuan B. Cumulative exposure characteristics of vegetable farmers exposed to Chlorpyrifos in Central Java - Indonesia; a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1066. [PMID: 34090393 PMCID: PMC8178818 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11161-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Agriculture is a major economic sector in Indonesia. Chemical pesticides are widely being used in agriculture for controlling pest. There is a growing concern that pesticide exposure, particularly chlorpyrifos (CPF) exposure, combined with other occupational characteristics that determine the level of exposure, can lead to further health impacts for farmers. Our objective was to evaluate the cumulative exposure characteristics among farmers exposed to CPF by using a validated algorithm. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study of 152 vegetable farmers aged 18–65 who actively used CPF for at least 1 year in Central Java, Indonesia. Subject characteristics were obtained using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire, addressed for sociodemographic and work-related characteristics. The cumulative exposure level (CEL) was estimated as a function of the intensity level of pesticide exposure (IL), lifetime years of pesticide use and the number of days spraying per year. CEL was subsequently classified into two groups, high and low exposure groups. The difference in characteristics of the study population was measured using Chi-square, independent-t or Mann-Whitney test. Association between CEL and its characteristics variables were performed by multiple linear regression. Results Seventy-one subjects (46.7%) were classified as the high exposure group. The use of multiple pesticide mixtures was common among our study population, with 94% of them using 2 or more pesticides. 73% reported direct contact with concentrated pesticides product, and over 80% reported being splashed or spilt during preparation or spraying activity. However, we found that the proportion of proper personal protective equipment (PPE) use in our subjects was low. Higher volume of mixture applied (p < 0.001) and broader acres of land (p = 0.001) were associated with higher cumulative exposure level, while using long-sleeved clothes and long pants (p < 0.05) during pesticide spraying were associated with lower cumulative exposure after adjusted for age and gender. Conclusions These findings indicate an inadequate knowledge of using pesticides properly. Thus, we recommend comprehensive training on pesticide usage and encourage proper PPE to reduce the exposure level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen Fuk Liem
- Doctoral Program, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia. .,Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science Universitas Kristen Krida Wacana, Jakarta, 11510, Indonesia.
| | - Muchtaruddin Mansyur
- Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, 10320, Indonesia
| | - Dewi S Soemarko
- Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, 10320, Indonesia
| | - Aria Kekalih
- Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, 10320, Indonesia
| | - Imam Subekti
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia
| | - Franciscus D Suyatna
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia
| | - Dwi A Suryandari
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia
| | - Safarina G Malik
- Eijkman Institute for Molecular Biology, National Research and Innovation Agency, Jalan Diponegoro No. 69, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Bertha Pangaribuan
- Prodia Occupational Health Institute International, Jakarta, 10430, Indonesia
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20
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Bagheri A, Pirmoazen S, Allahyari MS. Assessment of farmers' understanding of the pictograms displayed on pesticide labels. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:17812-17825. [PMID: 33400115 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-11821-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Pesticide labels and pictograms are the first and utmost source of information for safe use and personal protection of farmers and a legally binding document against environmental degradation reinforced by governments. The influence of pictogram information on the safe use of pesticides depends on the importance of pictogram to farmers and how they interpret its information. The present study explores farmers' interpretation of risk assessment data of pictograms displayed on pesticide labels. The statistical population is composed of all wheat and potato farmers in Ardabil County (N = 4964) of which 200 farmers were sampled based on Morgan's sampling table. Data were collected using a questionnaire for the 2018-2019 cropping year. The content validity of the research instrument was determined by a panel of faculty members and its reliability was confirmed by the coefficient of Cronbach's alpha. Results indicated that farmers had poor understanding of the pictograms. Unclarity of pictograms, inability to understand their meaning, and low literacy or illiteracy were the main causes of poor understanding of pictograms, respectively. Educational level, extension training, and attitude also had a positive significant relationship with pictogram comprehension. On the other hand, pictogram comprehension did not show a significant correlation with the use of personal protective equipment and the adoption of safety measures during pesticide handling and application. The results of multiple regression analysis indicated that the variables of attitude towards pictograms, information sources, educational level, and attending training courses on chemical pesticides were the main factors underpinning pictogram understanding so that they altogether accounted for 58% of the variance in the dependent variable of the research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asghar Bagheri
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
| | - Sahar Pirmoazen
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
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21
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Li H, Daszak F, Chmura A, Zhang Y, Terry P, Fielder M. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Zoonotic Risk in Wildlife Trade, Southern China. ECOHEALTH 2021; 18:95-106. [PMID: 34345998 PMCID: PMC8331996 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-021-01532-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Current wildlife trade practices in China lead to significant interactions between humans and animals and drive the emergence of zoonotic diseases. The at-risk behaviors, knowledge, and attitudes that influence health-related behaviors in relation to animal contact and safety measures in the trade remain poorly understood. A self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted among 947 adult Internet users in three provinces in southern China to assess knowledge, perceived disease risks, at-risk behaviors, and the association of these factors with other demographic factors among the target population. Few of the participants possessed sufficient knowledge of zoonotic diseases. Although most participants were opposed to the use of wild animal resources, many reported keeping wild animals as pets (30.7%) and eating wild animals (30.5%). The majority of participants (76.3%) believed the disease transmission via wildlife trade, but few connected contact with animals to sickness (18.5%) and only slightly more than half sought post-exposure treatment (54.4%). These results reveal low levels of knowledge and perceived risk regarding disease emergence from the animal-human interactions in wildlife trade and uncover the gaps in knowledge and attitudes as key challenges to the development of health behavior change interventions pertaining to wildlife trade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongying Li
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, USA.
- School of Life Science, Engineering and Computing, Kingston University, Kingston, UK.
| | - Francesca Daszak
- Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | | | - Yunzhi Zhang
- Yunnan Institute of Endemic Diseases Control and Prevention, Dali, China
- School of Public Health, Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Philip Terry
- School of Business and Innovation, Kingston University, Kingston, UK
| | - Mark Fielder
- School of Life Science, Engineering and Computing, Kingston University, Kingston, UK
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22
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Mardigian P, Chalak A, Fares S, Parpia A, El Asmar K, Habib RR. Pesticide practices in coastal agricultural farms of Lebanon. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2021; 31:132-147. [PMID: 31311292 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2019.1634797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The agricultural sector in Lebanon relies heavily on agrochemicals for crop protection; thus exposing humans and the environment to the harmful effects of pesticides. This study investigated Lebanese farmers' pesticide use practices and explored the underlying factors associated with farmers' choices. Of the 104 surveyed farmers, around 87% were willing to use pesticides that are less toxic to humans and the environment than those currently using, if available. The majority of these farmers (92%) planted their crops in greenhouses. Willingness to use less toxic pesticides was significantly associated with farmers using greenhouses as opposed to open fields, after adjusting for demographic and behavioural characteristics (OR = 7.50; p = 0.010). There was no association between willingness to use less toxic pesticides and perceptions of pesticides' health effects. Policies banning the import and sale of internationally banned pesticides must be enforced. Farmers must be supported to make informed choices about pesticides and their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patil Mardigian
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut , Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Chalak
- Department of Agriculture, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, American University of Beirut , Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Souha Fares
- Hariri School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut , Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Alyssa Parpia
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, The University of Toronto , Toronto, Canada
| | - Khalil El Asmar
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut , Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rima R Habib
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut , Beirut, Lebanon
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23
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Goeb J, Lupi F. Showing pesticides' true colors: The effects of a farmer-to-farmer training program on pesticide knowledge. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 279:111821. [PMID: 33340964 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.111821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Information plays an important role in technology adoption and behavior change. This may be particularly true for pesticide decisions, which affect farmer income, health, and the environment. Pesticide use is increasing, and farmers often have incomplete knowledge of how pesticides affect crop production and health. Researchers regularly recommend information interventions to improve pesticide knowledge. This study uses a randomized controlled trial of a pesticide training program in Zambia to identify the effects of information on farmer knowledge of both the health risks and the production benefits of pesticides. We use detailed knowledge assessments covering identification and interpretation of toxicity color labels, pest control properties, and exposure to reveal a more complete picture of pesticide knowledge and to identify where information can have the greatest impact. Our results show that training significantly improved farmer knowledge, particularly for the more complicated pesticide characteristics that are harder to learn from experience. We also find that more experienced farmers had worse prior knowledge of pesticide toxicity, though they also had larger increases from training. Overall, our results suggest that pesticide information interventions should focus on the pest control properties of pesticides and on showing pesticides' true colors through toxicity identification by color labels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Goeb
- Michigan State University, 55(E) Inya Myaing Rd, Bahan Township, Yangon, Myanmar.
| | - Frank Lupi
- Michigan State University, 446 W. Circle, Dr., Rm 301B, Morrill Hall of Agriculture, East Lansing, MI, 48824-1039, USA.
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Migheli M. Do trained farmers protect themselves when using pesticides? Evidence from rural Vietnam. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2020; 192:424. [PMID: 32529406 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-020-08353-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Programs designed to educate farmers on the safe use and application of agrochemicals, and to train them in integrated pest management, are common in developing countries, where the agricultural workers overuse pesticides and fail to use adequate protection. In this study, I evaluate the effects of exposure to both types of programs-the use of pesticides and protection. The data are from the Mekong Delta, which is the most fertile region of Vietnam, produces most of the country's rice and vegetables. The Vietnamese government began such educative campaigns in the late 1990s. The results show that while the abovementioned programs are effective in promoting the use of personal protection, they have less success in reducing the use of pesticides. Moreover, the evidence suggests that the two types of program are substitutes rather than complements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Migheli
- Department of Economics and Statistics "Cognetti de Martiis", University of Torino, Lungo Dora Siena, 100, I-10153, Torino, Italy.
- CeRP and OEET, Collegio Carlo Alberto, Piazza Arbarello, 8, I-10121, Torino (TO), Italy.
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Sapbamrer R, Thammachai A. Factors affecting use of personal protective equipment and pesticide safety practices: A systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2020; 185:109444. [PMID: 32247154 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.109444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
An evidence-based understanding of factors influencing PPE use and pesticide safety practices has the benefit of facilitating the design of interventions to minimize exposure to pesticides and the promotion of the utilization of PPE and safety practices among agricultural pesticide handlers. The aim of this study, therefore, is to review the available literature on the use of PPE in agricultural pesticide handlers in world regions, and also the factors associated with the use of PPE and pesticide safety practices in farmers and farm workers. Full-text articles published on PubMed, Scopus, and ISI databases between 1999 and 2019 were reviewed and the scientific evidence was evaluated. One hundred and twenty-one articles were eligible for inclusion in this quantitative synthesis: 110 evaluated PPE use in agricultural pesticide handlers, and 23 focused on factors affecting PPE use and pesticide safety practices. Considerable evidence was found to show that the most basic PPE worn among pesticide handlers in all world regions was a long sleeve shirt (66.1%), long sleeve trousers (71.1%), and a hat (47.3%). The lowest basic PPE worn was an apron (8.6%), goggles (24.3%), gloves (40.5%), boots (42.3%), and mask (43.2%). The PPE worn (except for an apron) was proportionally higher in farmers than in farm workers. There is considerable evidence to suggest that the significant determinants associated with PPE use and pesticide safety practices are as follows: (1) demographic factors (i.e. education/literacy level, experience of illness, income); (2) farm structure factors (i.e. farm size); (3) behavioral and psychosocial factors (i.e. contact with pesticides, perceptions, attitudes, awareness, norms and beliefs); and (4) environmental factors (i.e. information about pesticides, access to extension services, training program, and farm organization). Therefore, there is a recognizable need for a life-long education program with training to change the perception and behavior of pesticide handlers sustainably.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ratana Sapbamrer
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 110 Inthavaroros Road, Sri Phum Subdistrict, Muang District, Chiang Mai Province, 50200, Thailand.
| | - Ajchamon Thammachai
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 110 Inthavaroros Road, Sri Phum Subdistrict, Muang District, Chiang Mai Province, 50200, Thailand; Department of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Phayao, 19 Mae Ka Subdistrcit, Muang District, Phayao Province, 56000, Thailand
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Quansah R, Bend JR, Armah FA, Bonney F, Aseidu J, Yawson DO, Adu MO, Luginaah I, Essumang DK, Abdul-Rahaman A, Cobbina S, Iddi S, Tersigni M, Afful S, Osei-Fosu P, Nketiah-Amponsah E. Respiratory and non-respiratory symptoms associated with pesticide management practices among farmers in Ghana's most important vegetable hub. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2019; 191:716. [PMID: 31686222 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-019-7898-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The data presented here are from the Offinso North District Farm Health Study (ONFAHS), a population-based cross-sectional study among vegetable farmers in Ghana. The paper addresses knowledge, pesticide handling practices, and protective measures related to pesticide use by self-reported symptoms for 310 adult farmers who completed a comprehensive questionnaire on pesticide management practices and health. In addition, an inventory was prepared using information supplied by pesticide sellers/dealers in this district. We report that cough and wheezing (but not breathlessness) are positively associated with stirring pesticide preparations with bare hands/drinking water while mixing/applying pesticides, and stirring pesticide preparations with bare hands/drinking water/smoking cigarettes while mixing/applying pesticides. There is a significant exposure-response association between the number of precautionary measures practiced while handling pesticides and cough and wheezing but not with breathlessness. We also found unsafe practices to be associated with sexual dysfunction, nervousness, and lack of concentration. The results also suggest a negative association between practice of any precautionary measure when mixing/applying pesticides and sexual dysfunction, nervousness, and lack of concentration. We found that in spite of the fact that farmers have adequate knowledge about the environment and health effects of pesticides, several unhygienic practices are in widespread use, indicating that knowledge is not necessarily always translated in action. Further action is necessary to promote the safe use of pesticides and to replace existing poor management practices among these and other farmers in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reginald Quansah
- Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, LG 30, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - John R Bend
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Siebens Drake Medical Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Frederick Ato Armah
- Department of Environmental Science, School of Biological Sciences, College of Agriculture & Natural Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Felix Bonney
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology-Africa Institute of Sanitation and Waste Management, East Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joshua Aseidu
- Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, LG 30, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - David Oscar Yawson
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Siebens Drake Medical Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Michael Osei Adu
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Siebens Drake Medical Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Isaac Luginaah
- Department of Geography, Western University, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Kofi Essumang
- Environmental Health Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Abukari Abdul-Rahaman
- Biological, Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, LG 30, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Samuel Cobbina
- Department of Ecotourism and Environmental Management, Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources, University for Development Studies, Nyankpala, Ghana
| | - Samuel Iddi
- Department of Statistics, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Matthew Tersigni
- Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Samuel Afful
- Nuclear Chemistry and Envirionmental Research Centre, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Accra, Ghana
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Bagheri A, Bondori A, Allahyari MS, Damalas CA. Modeling farmers' intention to use pesticides: An expanded version of the theory of planned behavior. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2019; 248:109291. [PMID: 31352279 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.109291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Numerous studies have been carried out on pesticide handling practices in agriculture, but drivers of farmers' intentions to use pesticides are not well documented. The main purpose of this study was to explore farmers' intention to use pesticides in agriculture, based on an expanded version of the theory of planned behavior (TPB), with knowledge about pesticides and moral norms as additional constructs in the original TPB model. A sample of 400 cereal farmers of irrigated farmlands of Moghan plain, Iran was selected using multistage cluster sampling. Knowledge about pesticides hazards was the most important variable affecting farmers' intention to use pesticides. Knowledge mainly impacted perceived behavioral control of pesticide use and attitude towards pesticides. Thus, high levels of knowledge about pesticides were linked with greater influence of attitudes towards pesticides on farmers' intention. In turn, perceived behavioral control of pesticide use was affected by moral norms, subjective norms, and attitudes towards pesticide use. Moral norms and subjective norms also affected attitudes towards pesticides. Findings offer new evidence on the interrelationship of several variables in forming farmers' intention to use pesticides in the context of the widely used model of the TPB, for which no data are available in the literature. Promoting knowledge about pesticides is a fundamental step for regulating pesticide use among farmers, probably by stabilizing and rendering farmers' attitudes resistant to change. Moral norms and subjective norms can play a role mainly by affecting perceived behavioral control and attitudes towards pesticides. Combination of educational interventions for upgrading general knowledge about pesticides, with training courses, disincentives, and public awareness campaigns relating to pesticides may improve our ability to affect farmers' behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asghar Bagheri
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran.
| | - Abolmohammad Bondori
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran
| | | | - Christos A Damalas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece.
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Daam MA, Chelinho S, Niemeyer JC, Owojori OJ, De Silva PMCS, Sousa JP, van Gestel CAM, Römbke J. Environmental risk assessment of pesticides in tropical terrestrial ecosystems: Test procedures, current status and future perspectives. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2019; 181:534-547. [PMID: 31234068 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2019.06.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Despite the increasing use of pesticides in tropical countries, research and legislative efforts have focused on their temperate counterparts. This paper presents a review of the literature on environmental risk assessment of pesticides for tropical terrestrial agroecosystems. It aims at evaluating potential differences in pesticide risk between temperate and tropical regions as well as to highlight research needs in the latter. Peculiarities of pesticide risks in tropical terrestrial agroecosystems are discussed in subsections 1) agricultural practices; 2) research efforts; 3) fate and exposure; 4) toxicity testing methods; and 5) sensitivity. The intensive and often inadequate pesticide application practices in tropical areas are likely to result in a relatively greater pesticide exposure in edge-of-field water bodies. Since pesticide fate may be different under tropical conditions, tropical scenarios for models estimating predicted environmental pesticide concentrations should be developed. Sensitivity comparisons do not indicate a consistent similar, greater or lower relative sensitivity of tropical soil organisms as compared to temperate organisms. However, several methods and procedures for application in the tropics need to be developed, which include: 1) identifying and collecting natural soils to be used as reference test substrates in tests; 2) identifying and discerning the range of sensitivity of native test species to soil contaminants; 3) developing test guidelines applicable to tropical/subtropical conditions; and 4) developing methods and procedures for higher tier testing for full development and implementation of environmental risk assessment schemes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiel A Daam
- CENSE, Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, New University of Lisbon, Quinta da Torre, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal.
| | - Sónia Chelinho
- CFE - Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, P-3000 456, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Júlia C Niemeyer
- Centre of Curitibanos, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Curitibanos, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Olugbenga J Owojori
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
| | - P Mangala C S De Silva
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Ruhuna, Matara, 81000, Sri Lanka
| | - Jóse Paulo Sousa
- CFE - Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, P-3000 456, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cornelis A M van Gestel
- Department of Ecological Science, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081, HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jörg Römbke
- ECT Oekotoxikologie GmbH, Böttgerstr. 2-14, 65439, Flörsheim, Germany
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Arévalo-Jaramillo P, Idrobo A, Salcedo L, Cabrera A, Vintimilla A, Carrión M, Bailon-Moscoso N. Biochemical and genotoxic effects in women exposed to pesticides in Southern Ecuador. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:24911-24921. [PMID: 31243655 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-05725-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Toxicity refers to the potential of a substance such as a pesticide to cause damage to the structure or functions of an exposed organism. Pesticides can lead to harmful biological effects in exposed animals and their offspring over the medium and long term. They can affect the immunological, nervous, endocrine, and reproductive systems. DNA damage has also been linked to exposure to pesticides, and this damage can cause abortions, degenerative diseases, and cancer. The aim of this work was to establish whether women who are indirectly exposed to pesticides exhibit a compromised health status, including genotoxic effect. Women exposed indirectly to pesticides in Chimchanga and Colaisaca in the south of Ecuador underwent hematological and biochemical tests and micronucleus assay in buccal cells. The subjects were also genotyped for GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1, and PON1 polymorphisms, which can modify an individual's capacity to metabolize pesticides and relation with damage of DNA. The study revealed hepatic toxicity in Colaisaca women (AST and ALT) and an increase in the rate of micronucleus (MN) in Colaisaca individuals. In addition, genetic polymorphisms in PON1 and GSTP1 showed effects of modulating the frequency of karyolytic cells, karyorrhectic cells, and condensed chromatin cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Arévalo-Jaramillo
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano alto s/n, CP: 1101608, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Alicia Idrobo
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano alto s/n, CP: 1101608, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Lorena Salcedo
- Instituto de Ruralidades del Sur del Ecuador, Juan Jose Peña y Colon., Loja, Ecuador
| | - Andrea Cabrera
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano alto s/n, CP: 1101608, Loja, Ecuador
- Maestría en Análisis Biológico y Diagnóstico de Laboratorio, Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano alto s/n, CP :1101608, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Andrea Vintimilla
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano alto s/n, CP: 1101608, Loja, Ecuador
- Maestría en Análisis Biológico y Diagnóstico de Laboratorio, Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano alto s/n, CP :1101608, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Mayra Carrión
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano alto s/n, CP: 1101608, Loja, Ecuador
- Maestría en Análisis Biológico y Diagnóstico de Laboratorio, Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano alto s/n, CP :1101608, Loja, Ecuador
| | - Natalia Bailon-Moscoso
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Tecnica Particular de Loja, San Cayetano alto s/n, CP: 1101608, Loja, Ecuador.
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30
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Bhandari G, Zomer P, Atreya K, Mol HGJ, Yang X, Geissen V. Pesticide residues in Nepalese vegetables and potential health risks. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 172:511-521. [PMID: 30852454 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
We conducted this study in order to assess the pesticide residues in vegetables and examine the related human health risk. Therefore, residues of 23 pesticides (organophosphates, organochlorines, acaricides, fungicides, and insecticides of biological origin) were analysed in the three main vegetable crops grown in Southern Nepal: 27 eggplant, 27 chilli and 32 tomato samples representing (i) conventional (N = 67) and ii) integrated pest management (IPM) fields (N = 19). Pesticide residues were found in 93% of the eggplant samples and in all of the chilli and tomato samples. Multiple residues were observed in 56% of the eggplant samples, 96% of chilli samples and all of the tomato samples. The range (µg/kg) of total detected pesticide residues in eggplants, chillies and tomatoes was 1.71-231, 4.97-507, 13.1-3465, respectively. The most frequently detected pesticides in these vegetables were carbendazim and chloropyrifos. Pesticide residues in 4% of the eggplant, 44% of the tomato and 19% of the chilli samples exceeded the EU maximum residue limits (MRLs). The residues of triazophos, omethoate, chloropyrifos and carbendazim exceeded the EU MRLs. Compared to chilli and eggplant crops, more carbendazim was sprayed onto tomato crops (p < 0.05). We assessed adolescent and adult dietary exposure using hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) equations for the identified pesticides. HQ> 1 was observed for chloropyrifos, triazophos and carbendazim in eggplants; profenofos, triazophos, dimethoate, omethoate, chloropyrifos and carbendazim in tomatoes; and dichlorvos and chloropyrifos in chillies. Of all of the HQs, the highest acute HQ (aHQ) was for triazophos (tomato) in adolescents (aHQ=657) and adults (aHQ=677), showing the highest risks of dietary exposure. The cumulative dietary exposure showed a higher HI for organophosphates (HI>83) and a lower HI for organochlorines, acaricides and biological insecticides (HI<1). The concentration of pesticide residues in the vegetable crops from the IPM field was considerably lower, suggesting a greater ability of IPM systems to reduce the dietary risks from exposure to pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Govinda Bhandari
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands; Progressive Sustainable Developers Nepal (PSD-Nepal), Kathmandu, Nepal.
| | - Paul Zomer
- RIKILT-Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Kishor Atreya
- PHASE Nepal, Suryabinayak 4, Dadhikot, Bhaktapur, Nepal
| | - Hans G J Mol
- RIKILT-Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Xiaomei Yang
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands; College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Violette Geissen
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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31
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Bagheri A, Emami N, Damalas CA, Allahyari MS. Farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of pesticide use in apple farms of northern Iran: impact on safety behavior. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:9343-9351. [PMID: 30721432 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-04330-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Farmers' knowledge of pesticide use as well as their attitudes and perceptions concerning risks and safety play a crucial role in safe spraying operations in farms, but little is known for the inter-relationships among these variables and their impact on safety behavior. This study examined the levels of knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of pesticide use among apple farmers (n = 200) of Meshkinshahr County, Iran. All farmers used fungicides in their farms. On a scale from 1 to 5, the mean scores of knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions were 3.66 ± 0.77, 3.36 ± 0.59, and 4.37 ± 0.42, respectively, implying a moderate level of knowledge of pesticide use and attitudes towards pesticides, but positive perceptions of pesticides among respondents. Contact with extension agents, education level, reading pesticide labels, and household literate members showed positive association (P < 0.01) with knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of pesticide use, while contact with other farmers was negatively associated (P < 0.01) with these variables. Farming experience showed positive association (P < 0.01) with knowledge of pesticide use, while age showed negative association (P < 0.01) with attitudes towards pesticides. Poisoning experience was negatively associated with both attitudes and perceptions (P < 0.01), but not with knowledge. Farmers' knowledge of pesticide use (total effect 0.62) was the most important variable affecting pesticide use behavior of apple farmers followed by attitudes (total effect 0.50) and perceptions (total effect 0.42). Also, knowledge impacted attitudes towards pesticide use (accounting for 71% of the variability in farmers' attitudes), while attitudes in turn impacted perceptions (accounting for 69% of the variability in farmers' perceptions). Findings specify inter-relationships between farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions and the impact of those variables on safety behavior concerning pesticide use. Increasing farmers' knowledge of pesticide use and modifying attitudes and perceptions concerning pesticides are necessary for improving safety behavior of farmers in the use of pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asghar Bagheri
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
| | - Naier Emami
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Christos A Damalas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece.
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Sharifzadeh MS, Abdollahzadeh G, Damalas CA, Rezaei R, Ahmadyousefi M. Determinants of pesticide safety behavior among Iranian rice farmers. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 651:2953-2960. [PMID: 30463146 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.10.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2018] [Revised: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Safety behaviors in pesticide use are considered the most important determinants of the adverse health effects among farmers. In addition, the risk of pesticide exposure is strongly associated with farmers' behavior when working with pesticides. However, there is limited understanding of farmers' safety behavior and its determinants, particularly in developing countries like Iran. A field survey of 373 rice producers was conducted in Mazandaran Province of northern Iran to study determinants of farmers' safety behavior when working with pesticides. Although farmers' safety behavior varied depending on the type of safety measures adopted, few farmers showed safe behaviors in using personal protective equipment (PPE) (8.9%), in following appropriate practices in pesticide use (8.6%), in following hygiene practices after using pesticides (2.7%), and in avoiding health risks (2.4%). The mean scores of importance of all four components of safety behavior were higher than the mean scores of their current use, implying that perceptions of importance of various types of safety measures during pesticide application were not fully reflected in farmers' practices. Perceived barriers of using safety measures were the most reliable predictor of farmers' safety behavior in pesticide use. Perceived barriers of using safety measures and mean number of pesticide applications per cropping season had a negative impact on farmers' safety behaviors. By contrast, the variables education, level of self-consumed production in the household, experience of health risks related to working with pesticides, regular health check-ups, and perception of pesticide hazards promoted farmers' safety behaviors. The study not only presents a clear framework for better understanding and assessing farmers' safety behavior in pesticide use, but also provides valuable inputs for the design of effective interventions that could support farmers in the implementation of safety measures in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sharif Sharifzadeh
- Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran.
| | - Gholamhossein Abdollahzadeh
- Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran.
| | - Christos A Damalas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece
| | - Rohollah Rezaei
- Department of Agricultural Extension, Communication and Rural Development, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zanjan, 3879145371 Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Ahmadyousefi
- Department of Agronomy, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran
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Satya Sai MV, Revati GD, Ramya R, Swaroop AM, Maheswari E, Kumar MM. Knowledge and Perception of Farmers Regarding Pesticide Usage in a Rural Farming Village, Southern India. Indian J Occup Environ Med 2019; 23:32-36. [PMID: 31040587 PMCID: PMC6477948 DOI: 10.4103/ijoem.ijoem_121_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Farmers are extensively using pesticides for pest control in agriculture. Their precarious handling practices may lead to higher exposure resulting in adverse health effects. Aim: Current study was aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding pesticide usage and its toxic effects by farmers. Settings and Design: Cross sectional, Study Setting: Rural village in south Karnataka. Materials and Methods: Sample size: 171 farmers, Data collection: face to face standardized validated questionnaire. Statistical Analysis: Chi-square test. Results: A total of 118 males and 53 females participated in this study with median age of 40 years. About 61% of the farmers knew the harmful effects of pesticides. However, 22% of them were mixing the pesticides using their bare hands and 26% were not wearing any protective clothing during spraying pesticides. Around 67% were carelessly disposing the leftover pesticides in the open fields. Skin problems and neurological system disturbances were the most common pesticide related health symptoms. Equipment washing practices (P < 0.05) and protective clothing (P < 0.03) were significant predictors of health related problems. Significant associations were found between the occurrence of headache and equipment washing practices (P < 0.03), storage of pesticide remains (P < 0.02) and protective clothing (P < 0.01). Conclusion: These findings showed that knowledge level is adequate among farmers but this did not reflect in their practice. There is a need for continuous pesticide safety education along with training to the farmers regarding use of personal protective devices, personal hygiene and sanitation practices during and after application of pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minnikanti Venkata Satya Sai
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - G Devi Revati
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - R Ramya
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Ann Mary Swaroop
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Eswaran Maheswari
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Mudigubba Manoj Kumar
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, M. S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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Bondori A, Bagheri A, Damalas CA, Allahyari MS. RETRACTED: Use of personal protective equipment towards pesticide exposure: Farmers' attitudes and determinants of behavior. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 639:1156-1163. [PMID: 29929284 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.05.203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal). This article has been retracted at the request of the Editors-in-Chief. After a thorough investigation, the Editors have concluded that the acceptance of this article was partly based upon the positive advice of one illegitimate reviewer report. The report was submitted from an email account which was provided by the corresponding author C.A. Damalas as a suggested reviewer during the submission of the article. Although purportedly a real reviewer account, the Editors have concluded that this was not of an appropriate, independent reviewer. This manipulation of the peer-review process represents a clear violation of the fundamentals of peer review, our publishing policies, and publishing ethics standards. Apologies are offered to the reviewer whose identity was assumed and to the readers of the journal that this deception was not detected during the submission process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abolmohammad Bondori
- Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran
| | - Asghar Bagheri
- Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Iran.
| | - Christos A Damalas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Orestiada, Greece.
| | - Mohammad S Allahyari
- Department of Agricultural Management, Rasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Rasht, Iran
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Sharifzadeh MS, Damalas CA, Abdollahzadeh G. Perceived usefulness of personal protective equipment in pesticide use predicts farmers' willingness to use it. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 609:517-523. [PMID: 28755601 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.07.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 07/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Personal protective equipment (PPE) can substantially reduce the risk exposure from pesticide spraying, but compliance is rather low, particularly among small-scale farmers. In this study the connection between farmers' willingness to use PPE in pesticide handling and perceptions of PPE usefulness was examined through a survey of 341 small-scale farmers in Gorgan county of Golestan Province, Iran. Farmers who were not using PPE when working with pesticides were purposively selected to better serve the objective of the study. Multinomial logit regression models were employed to examine differences in farmers' willingness to use PPE in the future. Almost four out of ten farmers (38.1%) showed willingness to use PPE. However, 36.7% of the farmers showed unwillingness and 25.2% were unsure about using PPE. The average score of farmers' perceptions of PPE disadvantages (x=0.55) was significantly higher than the corresponding score of PPE advantages (x=0.38). Low availability and high price were considered the most important constraints in PPE use by the majority of farmers (75.4% and 74.8% of the farmers, respectively). Farmers who perceived usefulness of PPE, such as effectiveness, safety, and ease of use, were more willing to use PPE in the future. Those who perceived non-usefulness of PPE, driven by unavailability, high price, lack of use by neighbors or colleagues, and ignorance of PPE in extension trainings, were less likely to use PPE in the future. Findings revealed that willingness to use PPE among small-scale farmers when working with pesticides is strongly linked to their perception of PPE usefulness. Findings raise our understanding of the important role of farmers' knowledge in PPE acceptance and use and can motivate policy-makers to pay more attention to the role of farmers' perceptions and awareness in the success or failure of health and safety programs. It is necessary to incorporate farmers' preferences in extension programs to promote safety measures during working with pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sharif Sharifzadeh
- Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran.
| | - Christos A Damalas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, GR-682 00 Orestiada, Greece.
| | - Gholamhossein Abdollahzadeh
- Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran
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Lam S, Pham G, Nguyen-Viet H. Emerging health risks from agricultural intensification in Southeast Asia: a systematic review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2017; 23:250-260. [PMID: 29560804 PMCID: PMC6060873 DOI: 10.1080/10773525.2018.1450923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background Agricultural intensification is having profound impacts on food security and rural livelihoods; however, concerns remain about the potential implications on public health. Objectives We aim to examine and synthesize the evidence for human health risks of agricultural intensification in Southeast Asia. Methods We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed articles published between January 2000 and December 2015 from two electronic databases (PubMed, CAB Direct). Results A total of 73 relevant studies were included and evaluated. More than half of the studies used epidemiological methods while others applied alternative methods to quantify or estimate risks. Studies mainly focused on occupational and consumer exposure to pesticides, without often specifying the actual health risk. Conclusion Overall, the current knowledge on health risks appears to be limited. More research on long-term health implications and a wider range of contaminants are needed if sustainable benefits are to be obtained from agricultural intensification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Lam
- Hanoi University of Public Health, Center for Public Health and Ecosystem Research, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Giang Pham
- Hanoi University of Public Health, Center for Public Health and Ecosystem Research, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Vietnam Public Health Association, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hung Nguyen-Viet
- Hanoi University of Public Health, Center for Public Health and Ecosystem Research, Hanoi, Vietnam
- International Livestock Research Institute, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Hongsibsong S, Sittitoon N, Sapbamrer R. Association of health symptoms with low-level exposure to organophosphates, DNA damage, AChE activity, and occupational knowledge and practice among rice, corn, and double-crop farmers. J Occup Health 2017; 59:165-176. [PMID: 28077823 PMCID: PMC5478518 DOI: 10.1539/joh.16-0107-oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to determine (1) total dialkylphosphate (ΣDAP) levels, occupational knowledge and practice, DNA damage, AChE activity, and health symptoms in rice, corn, and double-crop farmers; (2) the association of health symptoms with ΣDAP levels, occupational knowledge and practice, DNA damage, and AChE activity in farmers; and (3) the prevalence of health symptoms between farmers and non-farmers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted by interviewing as well as analyzing urine and blood samples during July to August 2014. Results: There were no differences in ΣDAP levels, AChE activity, and occupational knowledge and practice scores among all farmer groups. In terms of health symptoms related to ΣDAP, AChE activity, DNA damage, and occupational knowledge and practice, pesticide-related symptoms were determined, including breathlessness, chest pain, dry throat, numbness, muscle weakness, cramp, headache, dizziness, eye irritation, white/red rash, and white/red pimple, which were classified as respiratory, muscle, nervous, and epithelial symptoms. A remarkable finding was that farmers had a significantly higher prevalence of muscle weakness (odds ratio (OR)=3.79) and numbness (OR=3.45) as compared with non-farmers. Conclusion: Our findings, therefore, suggest that a long-term low-level exposure to organophosphates (OPs) may be associated with an increasing prevalence of muscle symptoms. However, a further cohort study incorporating sensitive health outcomes and measurement of multiple pesticides monitoring on a larger scale is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surat Hongsibsong
- Environment and Health Research Unit, Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University
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Damalas CA, Abdollahzadeh G. Farmers' use of personal protective equipment during handling of plant protection products: Determinants of implementation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 571:730-736. [PMID: 27425442 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.07.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Understanding factors affecting the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during handling of plant protection products (PPPs) is of major importance for the design of tailored interventions to minimize exposure among farmers. However, data regarding this issue are highly limited. Factors related to the use of PPE during handling of PPPs were explored in a survey of cotton farmers in northern Greece. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with the farmers based on a questionnaire with structured items on the frequency of use of various personal protective devices during handling of PPPs. New evidence on patterns of PPE use and potential exposure of farmers to PPPs is provided. Most farmers (49.3%) showed potentially unsafe behaviour with respect to PPE use. Hat and boots were the most commonly used protective items during PPPs use, but most of the farmers surveyed reported low frequency of use for gloves, goggles, face mask, coveralls, and respirator. Especially the respirator was reported to be the least used PPE item amongst farmers. Farmers who perceived PPPs as harmful substances or those who had an episode of intoxication in the past reported more frequent use of several PPE items. Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that the variable episode of intoxication in the past exerted the strongest positive influence on PPE use, followed by the perception of PPPs being hazardous substances, upper secondary education, previous training on PPPs (i.e., spraying equipment, application parameters, risks to human health and environment, safety issues) and farm size under cultivation. Old age exerted a significant negative influence on PPE use, namely, elderly farmers tended not to use PPE. Strategies to maximize the protection of applicators of PPPs from hazardous exposures still require innovation to achieve increased effectiveness. Emphasis on lifelong training and education of farmers about hazards and risks of PPPs is crucial for changing wrong behaviours in handling of PPPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos A Damalas
- Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, GR 68200 Orestiada, Greece.
| | - Gholamhossein Abdollahzadeh
- Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan, Iran
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Yeh JC, Liao CH. Assessment of perception and intention in pesticide purchase in Taiwan. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2016; 188:275. [PMID: 27059034 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-016-5267-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/27/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Environmental chemical agents such as pesticides can be purchased easily at a relatively low price, and this has resulted in high concern of environmental toxicity to human health, due to their persistence in various environmental bodies. Hence, this study aims to propose important factors influencing pesticide purchase intentions, including consumers' perceptions of the brand image and the ecological health risk. Since consumers are primary users, the seller knows the product's features but not the psychology of those who purchase it. Therefore, we attempted to clarify purchase intentions and perceptions using structural equation modeling techniques to empirically analyze survey data from 324 pesticide consumers in Taiwan. Our results demonstrate that perceived brand image positively affects perceived quality of a product, whereas perceived risk negatively affects perceived quality and purchase intentions. Furthermore, this study provides evidence that perceived quality positively affects purchase intentions. These relationships suggest that perceived quality mediates both the positive association between brand image and purchase intentions and the negative association between perceived risk and purchase intentions. Based on such outcomes, we propose that consumers need to be informed of pesticides related to costs and environmental benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Chao Yeh
- Department of Environmental Resources Management, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hsiang Liao
- Department of Environmental Resources Management, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, Taiwan.
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Houbraken M, Bauweraerts I, Fevery D, Van Labeke MC, Spanoghe P. Pesticide knowledge and practice among horticultural workers in the Lâm Đồng region, Vietnam: A case study of chrysanthemum and strawberries. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 550:1001-1009. [PMID: 26855353 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.01.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Vietnam, large amounts of pesticides are being used in agriculture. Next to benefits for agriculture, pesticides impose a huge threat to the environment when they are used in the wrong way. The objective of this work was to determine the level of knowledge and awareness of the smallholder farmers towards the use of pesticides in Vietnam, Dà Lat region. Based on the collected data, an occupational and environmental risk assessment was performed. RESULTS The results indicate that the majority of the pesticide operators in the strawberry and chrysanthemum crops have a rather high education. Pesticide knowledge, on the other hand, is usually gained through experience with pests and diseases. Only 30% of the farmers consulted a pesticide specialist or government stewardship for information on (new) pesticide products. Pesticide usage is rather high with application frequencies up to once every three days during the wet season. Pesticide packages are stored to be incinerated (51%) or to be thrown away with the garbage/taken to the landfill (37%). Only a small percentage disposes the packages into the local river (2%). The use of personal protection equipment is well established. Occupational risk assessment showed that the re-entry worker is exposed to a high risk. CONCLUSION While a general awareness of the hazard of pesticides to human health and the environment is present, practical implementation of this awareness, however, is still limited in strawberry and chrysanthemum crop. The environmental risk evaluation indicated plant protection products of which the use should be limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Houbraken
- Ghent University, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Crop Protection, Laboratory of Crop Protection Chemistry, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Ingvar Bauweraerts
- Ghent University, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Applied Ecology and Environmental Biology, Laboratory of Plant Ecology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Davina Fevery
- Ghent University, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Crop Protection, Laboratory of Crop Protection Chemistry, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marie-Christine Van Labeke
- Ghent University, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Plant Production, In Vitro Biology and Horticulture, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Spanoghe
- Ghent University, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Crop Protection, Laboratory of Crop Protection Chemistry, Ghent, Belgium
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Marina Mior S, Leman A, Baharudin M, Masripan R, Faazir T. M, Ifwat A. M. A Preliminary Study of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Pesticide Use Among Oil Palm Workers in Johor. MATEC WEB OF CONFERENCES 2016; 78:01055. [DOI: 10.1051/matecconf/20167801055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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Katz FS, Pecic S, Tran TH, Trakht I, Schneider L, Zhu Z, Ton-That L, Luzac M, Zlatanic V, Damera S, Macdonald J, Landry DW, Tong L, Stojanovic MN. Discovery of New Classes of Compounds that Reactivate Acetylcholinesterase Inhibited by Organophosphates. Chembiochem 2015; 16:2205-2215. [PMID: 26350723 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201500348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) that has been covalently inhibited by organophosphate compounds (OPCs), such as nerve agents and pesticides, has traditionally been reactivated by using nucleophilic oximes. There is, however, a clearly recognized need for new classes of compounds with the ability to reactivate inhibited AChE with improved in vivo efficacy. Here we describe our discovery of new functional groups--Mannich phenols and general bases--that are capable of reactivating OPC--inhibited AChE more efficiently than standard oximes and we describe the cooperative mechanism by which these functionalities are delivered to the active site. These discoveries, supported by preliminary in vivo results and crystallographic data, significantly broaden the available approaches for reactivation of AChE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francine S Katz
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA)
| | - Stevan Pecic
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA)
| | - Timothy H Tran
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, 1212 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027 (USA)
| | - Ilya Trakht
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA)
| | - Laura Schneider
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA)
| | - Zhengxiang Zhu
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA)
| | - Long Ton-That
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA)
| | - Michal Luzac
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA)
| | - Viktor Zlatanic
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA)
| | - Shivani Damera
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA)
| | - Joanne Macdonald
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA).,Genecology Research Centre, Inflammation and Healing Research Cluster, School of Science and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, 90 Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs, QLD 4556 (Australia)
| | - Donald W Landry
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA)
| | - Liang Tong
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, 1212 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027 (USA)
| | - Milan N Stojanovic
- Department of Medicine/Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, New York, NY 10032 (USA).,Departments of Biomedical Engineering and Systems Biology, Columbia University, 630 W. 168th street, New York, NY 10032 (USA)
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