1
|
Bernardino-Hernández HU, Gallardo-García Y, Vargas-Valencia G, Zapién-Martínez A, Sánchez-Cruz G, Reyes-Velasco L, Cueva-Villanueva JÁ, Hernández-García E, Vargas-Arzola J, Torres-Aguilar H. Pesticide Exposure in the Cultivation of Carica papaya L. and Capsicum annuum L. in Rural Areas of Oaxaca, Mexico. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:1061. [PMID: 39200670 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21081061] [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: 07/14/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024]
Abstract
This study focuses on describing the diversity of pesticides, the knowledge and behaviors of their use, and the acute poisoning symptoms (APS) derived from their exposure from two agricultural production systems (papaya-Carica papaya L.- and chili-Capsicum annuum L.-) in Oaxaca, Mexico. Through surveys, sociodemographic information, characteristics of the production system, knowledge and behaviors in the handling of pesticides, and APS perceived by users were captured. Papaya producers are younger, have fewer years of activity, and have larger agricultural areas than chili producers. Insect attacks and diseases are an essential factor for the application of pesticides. Thirty-one active ingredients (Ais) were identified in papaya and thirty-seven in chili, predominantly insecticides and fungicides of toxicological category IV. Approximately 50% of users apply mixtures of different Ais, have little knowledge and inappropriate behavior in their handling, and report up to five acute pesticide poisoning symptoms, mainly burning and irritation of the skin, burning eyes, itchy skin, runny nose, headache, and watery eyes. The production of papaya and chili are relevant activities for generating economic income, but they risk the producer's and their family's health. Both systems are a potential scenario for the manifestation of diseases due to exposure to pesticides in the medium and long term.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Héctor Ulises Bernardino-Hernández
- Chemical Sciences Faculty, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UABJO), Av. Universidad S/N. Cinco Señores, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca C.P. 68120, Mexico
| | - Yael Gallardo-García
- Chemical Sciences Faculty, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UABJO), Av. Universidad S/N. Cinco Señores, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca C.P. 68120, Mexico
| | - Gerardo Vargas-Valencia
- Chemical Sciences Faculty, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UABJO), Av. Universidad S/N. Cinco Señores, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca C.P. 68120, Mexico
| | - Arturo Zapién-Martínez
- Chemical Sciences Faculty, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UABJO), Av. Universidad S/N. Cinco Señores, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca C.P. 68120, Mexico
| | - Gabriel Sánchez-Cruz
- Chemical Sciences Faculty, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UABJO), Av. Universidad S/N. Cinco Señores, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca C.P. 68120, Mexico
| | - Leobardo Reyes-Velasco
- Chemical Sciences Faculty, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UABJO), Av. Universidad S/N. Cinco Señores, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca C.P. 68120, Mexico
| | - José Ángel Cueva-Villanueva
- Chemical Sciences Faculty, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UABJO), Av. Universidad S/N. Cinco Señores, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca C.P. 68120, Mexico
| | - Ericel Hernández-García
- Chemical Sciences Faculty, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UABJO), Av. Universidad S/N. Cinco Señores, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca C.P. 68120, Mexico
| | - Jaime Vargas-Arzola
- Chemical Sciences Faculty, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UABJO), Av. Universidad S/N. Cinco Señores, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca C.P. 68120, Mexico
| | - Honorio Torres-Aguilar
- Chemical Sciences Faculty, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UABJO), Av. Universidad S/N. Cinco Señores, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca C.P. 68120, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hussen Ahmed H, Astatike H, Fekadu S, Mekonen S. Analyzing Factors Affecting Farmers' Safe Pesticide Handling Practices in Southwest of Ethiopia: Implications for Policy. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSIGHTS 2024; 18:11786302241256495. [PMID: 38828043 PMCID: PMC11141214 DOI: 10.1177/11786302241256495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Background Pesticides play a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity by controlling pests. However, inadequate pesticide handling practices have a considerable adverse impact on human health. Nevertheless, there is limited knowledge regarding the extent of safe pesticide handling practices, particularly in low-income settings like Ethiopia. Hence, this study seeks to evaluate the implementation of safe pesticide handling practices and identify the factors associated with the status of the handling practices in low-income settings in Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was undertaken, involving 468 farmers randomly selected for participation. Data collection was carried out through structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. The analysis aimed to assess the proportion of safe pesticide handling practices (SPHP) and investigate the factors associated with SPHP was done using binary logistic regression. Explanatory variables with a P-value <0.25 were included in the final analysis. The factors were determined based on adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, P-value <.05. Model fit was evaluated using the Hosmer and Lemeshow tests. Results From the findings of our study, only 45.7% of farmers practiced SPHP, with factors such as education, experience, pesticide usage, and attitude toward safe practices influencing their practices. Farmers with education status primary and above were two times more likely to practice good handling of pesticides than those who didn't attend formal education. Farmers with a maximum of 5 years of experience in vegetable farming were 2.4 times more likely to exhibit good handling practices compared to their counterparts. Furthermore, farmers with favorable attitudes toward pesticide handling were 4.2 times more likely to engage in good pesticide handling practices than those with unfavorable attitudes. Therefore, the agricultural sectors, health sectors, and farmer associations should focus on these factors in order to mitigate the health risks associated with poor pesticide handling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hawi Hussen Ahmed
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Higemengist Astatike
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Samuel Fekadu
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Seblework Mekonen
- Ethiopian Institute of Water Resources, Water and Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Praneetvatakul S, Schreinemachers P, Vijitsrikamol K, Potchanasin C. Policy options for promoting wider use of biopesticides in Thai agriculture. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24486. [PMID: 38298629 PMCID: PMC10827763 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24486] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Biopesticides are rapidly growing in importance for crop protection globally, but nearly all growth is happening in high income countries. No previous work systematically analyzed how lower-income countries can better benefit from the increased availability of biopesticides, which is important because these countries are particularly affected by the adverse effects of chemical pesticide use. Here we review the legislation of biopesticides in Thailand and combine this with stakeholder interviews and interview data from 300 smallholder farmers producing rice, fruit, vegetables, and flowers. We find that Thailand has adopted a biopesticide registration system that facilitates a fast-track registration, but it is still relatively costly considering the small market size. While 65 % of the sampled farmers used biopesticides, most farmers still heavily relied on conventional pesticides as their main method to control pests. Education, farming experience, positive attitudes of biopesticides, adoption of other integrated pest management methods and contacts with government extension agents were positively associated with biopesticide use. Coordinated action is needed to stimulate the supply of a wider range of biopesticide products while promoting adoption among farmers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suwanna Praneetvatakul
- Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Faculty of Economics, Kasetsart University, 50 Phaholyothin Rd., Bangkok, 10900 Thailand
| | | | - Kampanat Vijitsrikamol
- Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Faculty of Economics, Kasetsart University, 50 Phaholyothin Rd., Bangkok, 10900 Thailand
| | - Chakrit Potchanasin
- Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Faculty of Economics, Kasetsart University, 50 Phaholyothin Rd., Bangkok, 10900 Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sapbamrer R, Sittitoon N, Thongtip S, Chaipin E, Sutalangka C, Chaiut W, La-up A, Thirarattanasunthon P, Thammachai A, Suwannakul B, Sangkarit N, Kitro A, Panumasvivat J. Acute health symptoms related to perception and practice of pesticides use among farmers from all regions of Thailand. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1296082. [PMID: 38259756 PMCID: PMC10800609 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1296082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Occupational exposure to pesticides may cause acute health effects for farmers and agricultural workers. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the prevalence of poisoning symptoms related pesticide exposure among farmers from all regions of Thailand, as well as factors linked to poisoning symptoms of neurological and neuromuscular systems, the respiratory system, and eye and skin disorders. Methods A cross sectional study was conducted in 4,035 farmers who lived in four regions of Thailand. The samples were chosen using stratified random sampling, with 746 for the Central region, 2,065 for the North-East, 586 for the North, and 638 for the South. Results The results found that the highest prevalence of poisoning symptoms was found in association with neurological and neuromuscular systems (75%), followed by the respiratory system (60.4%), the eyes (41.2%), and skin (14.8%). The most prevalent symptoms were muscle pain (49%) for neurological and neuromuscular symptoms, burning nose (37.6%) for respiratory symptoms, itchy eyes (26.3%) for eye symptoms, and rashes (14.4%) for skin symptoms. The remarkable findings were that types of pesticide use, task on the farm, types of pesticide sprayers, and perception are the crucial factors affecting all poisoning symptoms. Discussion The findings are also beneficial to the Thai government and other relevant organizations for launching measures, campaigns, or interventions to lower modifiable risk factors, resulting in reducing health risks associated with pesticide exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ratana Sapbamrer
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Nalin Sittitoon
- School of Environmental Health, Institute of Public Health, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Sakesun Thongtip
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
| | - Eakasit Chaipin
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Science, Rajabhat Lampang University, Lampang, Thailand
| | - Chatchada Sutalangka
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Integrative Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Wilawan Chaiut
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Integrative Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand
| | - Aroon La-up
- Nakhonsawan Campus, Mahidol University, Nakhon Sawan, Thailand
| | | | - Ajchamon Thammachai
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
| | - Boonsita Suwannakul
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
| | - Noppharath Sangkarit
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
| | - Amornphat Kitro
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Jinjuta Panumasvivat
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pengpan R, Kopolrat KY, Srichaijaroonpong S, Taneepanichskul N, Yasaka P, Kammoolkon R. Relationship Between Pesticide Exposure Factors and Health Symptoms Among Chili Farmers in Northeast Thailand. J Prev Med Public Health 2024; 57:73-82. [PMID: 38327014 PMCID: PMC10861334 DOI: 10.3961/jpmph.23.353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The unsafe use of pesticides in agriculture represents a major hazard to human health. This study was conducted to investigate the association between pesticide exposure and health symptoms among chili farmers in northeast Thailand. METHODS This cross-sectional analytic study included 141 chili farmers in Sakon Nakhon Province, in northeast Thailand. Data regarding health symptoms were gathered using a self-report questionnaire. A medical technician tested blood cholinesterase activity using an erythrocyte method, and an occupational medicine specialist at Ramathibodi Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand reviewed the results. Associations between personal characteristics, pesticide exposure factors, and health symptoms were analyzed using multiple logistic regression. RESULTS Of the 141 chili farmers studied, 66.7% experienced pesticide poisoning, as indicated by below-normal cholinesterase levels. Fatigue was the most frequently reported symptom associated with pesticide exposure, affecting 37.6% of participants. This was followed by nausea and vomiting (31.9%), dizziness (14.9%), and dry throat (14.9%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that several factors were significantly associated with adverse symptoms: amount of work experience, volume of pesticides used, use of chemical pesticides, use of leaking containers during spraying, direct pesticide exposure while working, contact with pesticide-soaked clothing, consumption of food and drinks in the fields, and blood cholinesterase level indicating risk. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests potential health risks for chili farmers stemming from exposure to and contamination by pesticides used in agricultural practices. To mitigate these risks, it is essential to supply personal protective equipment and to implement educational programs aimed at improving protective behaviors among farmers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ratchadaporn Pengpan
- Faculty of Public Health, Kasetsart University Chalermphrakiat Sakon Nakhon Province Campus, Sakon Nakhon, Thailand
| | - Kulthida Y. Kopolrat
- Faculty of Public Health, Kasetsart University Chalermphrakiat Sakon Nakhon Province Campus, Sakon Nakhon, Thailand
| | - Sribud Srichaijaroonpong
- Faculty of Public Health, Kasetsart University Chalermphrakiat Sakon Nakhon Province Campus, Sakon Nakhon, Thailand
| | | | - Patiwat Yasaka
- Faculty of Management Technology, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Surin Campus, Surin, Thailand
| | - Ratanee Kammoolkon
- Faculty of Public Health, Kasetsart University Chalermphrakiat Sakon Nakhon Province Campus, Sakon Nakhon, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abaineh A, Ejigu D, Atlabachew M, Dejen E, Tilahun G. Knowledge, attitude and practices of farmers and experts about the effects of pesticide residues on agricultural product users and ecosystems: A case of Fogera District, Ethiopia. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0292838. [PMID: 38060608 PMCID: PMC10703333 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Pesticides are chemicals used to control different types of pests. Though pesticides played a role in improving the quantity and quality of production, they have been threatening ecosystems and posed effects on humans in different parts of the world. Unfortunately, there were no studies made about the effects of pesticide residues on ecosystems and consumers in the Fogera District of Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Hence, the main objective of this study was to understand the knowledge, attitude, and practices of respondents about the effects of pesticide residues on ecosystems and consumers. A cross-sectional survey complemented by focus group discussions and field observations was used to gather the required data for the study. The close-ended data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, logistic regressions, and independent t-test, and data from open-ended questions were grouped and summarized based on their similarities. The findings of the study confirmed that there was significant knowledge, attitude, and practices difference between farmers and consumers about the effects of pesticide residues on ecosystems and humans. Farmers used highly toxic pesticides to control pests and improve the glossiness of vegetables and khat. Though they didn't use the sprayed vegetables for their home consumption, some of the farmers deliberately supplied pesticide-sprayed vegetables without worrying about the negative effects of the pesticides on the consumers. There were also fishing practices from rivers after intoxicating the fish using the pesticide sprayed feed. This, in turn, might poison individuals who consume the fish. In general, pesticide application practices and consumption of pesticide-sprayed foodstuffs and surface water might pose serious health risks to ecosystems and humans. To minimize the negative effects of pesticides, rigorous awareness-raising on the effects and management of pesticides, enforcement of laws, delineation of the pesticide free buffer zone for waters, the establishment of a clear pesticide supply chain to the end users, ecosystem assessment and food safety monitoring schemes are highly required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abebaw Abaineh
- Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Dessalegn Ejigu
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | | | - Eshete Dejen
- Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
- PM, Environment Protection, Agriculture & Environment Division, IGAD Secretariat, Djibouti, Republic of Djibouti
| | - Gashaw Tilahun
- Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Finhler S, Marchesan GP, Corona CF, Nunes AT, De Oliveira KCS, de Moraes AT, Soares LC, Lima FO, Dalmolin C, Benvegnú DM. Influence of pesticide exposure on farmers' cognition: A systematic review. J Neurosci Rural Pract 2023; 14:574-581. [PMID: 38059229 PMCID: PMC10696351 DOI: 10.25259/jnrp_58_2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Pesticide application has become necessary to increase crop productivity and reduce losses. However, the use of these products can produce toxic effects. Farmers are individuals occupationally exposed to pesticides, thus subject to associated diseases as well as cognitive impairment. However, this relation is not well established in the literature, requiring further investigation. To assess the potential association between farmers' pesticide exposure and cognitive impairment, we followed the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, considering participants, interventions, comparators, outcomes, and study strategies. Materials and Methods This study included articles published between 2000 and 2021 on the Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and PubMed databases, retrieved by the terms "pesticides and cognition" and "pesticides and memory." Results In total, ten studies fit the established criteria and were included in the sample. All had farmers occupationally exposed to pesticides in their sample and only one study dispensed with a control group. Of the neurobehavioral tests, four studies used mini-mental state examination, six neurobehavioral core test batteries (tests recognized in the area), and the remaining, other tests. We observed that 90% of articles found an association between cognitive impairment and pesticide exposure. Overall, five studies measured the activity of cholinesterases in their sample, of which three found significant differences between groups, confirming intoxication in those exposed. Conclusion Despite the limited number of trials, we found scientific evidence to support the existence of adverse effects of pesticides on farmers' cognition. We recommend that future studies research similar projects, expanding knowledge on the subject.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suelen Finhler
- Campus Realeza, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Realeza, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Camila Dalmolin
- Campus Pato Branco, Centro Universitário Mater Dei, Pato Branco, Paraná, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Karki R, Dangol K. Pesticide Use and Health Effects among Nepalese Farmers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Tokha Municipality. Indian J Occup Environ Med 2023; 27:255-259. [PMID: 38047174 PMCID: PMC10691517 DOI: 10.4103/ijoem.ijoem_75_23] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pesticides are essential for agricultural development, but their increased use in developing countries like Nepal poses health risks to farmers. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in wards 1, 2, and 3 of the Tokha Municipality in Kathmandu District to identify the health effects of pesticides and associated factors among farmers. The study included 333 respondents who were interviewed between April 26 and June 04, 2022. Results The majority of farmers (36.6%) were aged between 40 and 49 years, with a median (IQR) age of 45.0 (38.0 to 51.0) years. All farmers reported using pesticides, with 100% usage in vegetables. Most respondents (73%) reported experiencing health effects: headache (69.5%), skin irritation (42.8%), and burning eyes (31.3%) were the most common symptoms. Only 8% sought medical care. Additionally, 94.6% of respondents had not received training on integrated pest management, and none of them reported using a complete set of personal protective equipment. The study found that older age groups, females, those who were unable to read and write, and those of the Hindu religion, as well as respondents with longer pesticide use, more frequent spraying, and not detecting wind direction, had significantly higher odds of self-reported health problems (P < 0.05). Conclusion Our findings show that all farmers in the study were using pesticides, and the majority had reported health effects. Therefore, we recommend that farmers receive training on integrated pest management, use a complete set of personal protective equipment, and promptly seek medical care if they experience health issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Karki
- Department of Public Health, Yeti Health Science Academy, Maharajgunj, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Kanchan Dangol
- Department of Public Health, Yeti Health Science Academy, Maharajgunj, Kathmandu, Nepal
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tessema RA, Nagy K, Ádám B. Occupational and environmental pesticide exposure and associated health risks among pesticide applicators and non-applicator residents in rural Ethiopia. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1017189. [PMID: 36530710 PMCID: PMC9751888 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1017189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Intensive pesticide use increased concern about the potential acute and chronic health effects of pesticides in general and among applicators in particular. This study aims to explore occupational and environmental pesticide exposure and health risks among pesticide applicators and residents. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1,073 individuals. We examined the health effects potentially attributable to pesticide exposure using regression to estimate prevalence ratios (PR). A higher proportion of good knowledge of pesticides [75 vs. 14%; APR = 1.542 (1.358-1.752), p < 0.001] and a higher mean score of perceived health risk of pesticide use [4.21 vs. 3.90; APR = 1.079 (1.004-1.159), p < 0.05] were observed among applicators than residents. A significantly higher proportion of applicators experienced health effects presumably related to pesticide exposure among themselves (36%) than residents (16%), and a higher proportion of them used prescribed drugs in the past 12 months [51 vs. 32%; APR = 1.140 (1.003-1.295), p < 0.05]. Skin irritation, shortness of breath, cough, and dizziness were more likely reported by applicators than residents. Perceived toxicity of currently applied pesticide products, mix pesticides without gloves, regularly maintain and wash sprayer tank after application, occurrence of an incidental splash during mixing and application, and using home-based care after experiencing a symptom presumably due to pesticide exposure were significantly associated with health effects among applicators. Use of face mask and visiting health facility when experiencing a symptom presumably due to pesticide exposure were significantly positively correlated with attending training on the health risks and use of pesticides. A substantial proportion of applicators reported improper use of preventive measures and methods of pesticide waste disposal. These observations point out that applicators can face high health risks of occupational pesticide exposure in Ethiopia. Even trained applicators pursued poor preventive practices; hence, comprehensive practice-oriented in-depth training focusing on safety precautions and proper use of personal protective equipment, and provision of adequate pesticide waste disposal means are crucial interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roba Argaw Tessema
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary,Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary,Department of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Károly Nagy
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Balázs Ádám
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary,Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates,*Correspondence: Balázs Ádám
| |
Collapse
|