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Masumbuko DR, Mwitangabo AN, Basengere EB, Zamukulu PM, Mubalama LK, Mushagalusa GN. Small-scale market gardeners' knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding the use of chemical pesticides in the Kabare territory (South-Kivu) in Eastern D.R. Congo. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32917. [PMID: 38975166 PMCID: PMC11226892 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Damage caused by pests and diseases is one of constraints on crop production for food security. Based on the use of questionnaire and interviews that were conducted in Kabare territory (South-Kivu), this study was carried out to (i) assess farmers practices, attitudes, and knowledge about pesticides use, and (ii) assess the human health and physical environment effects using pesticides. Data was collected from 300 small-scale farmers in study area. Results showed that majority of our respondents were men (59 %) rather than women (41 %) and local knowledge of pesticide use was low (60 %). Education level had a significant influence (p < 0.01) on level of knowledge about pesticide use, time and dose of treatment, method of control, and persistence time. In addition, education level influence significantly farmers' attitudes before and after pesticide treatment (p < 0.05). Pest management control, time of pesticide application, and packaging management method varied significantly with level of local knowledge (p < 0.01). Pesticides use by small-scale farmers has an effect on water, soil, and air quality. It also causes human pathologies such as vomiting, eye irritation, and even loss of life in event of heavy exposure. Inhalation and dermal exposure are main and most dangerous routes of pesticide exposure in our study area, which lacks protective strategies. Finally, use of pesticides disrupts biodiversity through the disappearance of pollinators, predators, parasitoids, and soil microorganisms. Therefore, broad continuity of this study with integration of other scientific aspects would effectively contribute to the improvement of environmental quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieumerci R. Masumbuko
- Department of Environment and Sustainable Development, Institut Supérieur de Développement Rural (ISDR), P.O. Box 2849, Bukavu, South-Kivu, Congo
| | - Audaxine N. Mwitangabo
- Department of Environment and Sustainable Development, Institut Supérieur de Développement Rural (ISDR), P.O. Box 2849, Bukavu, South-Kivu, Congo
| | - Espoir B. Basengere
- Department of Environment and Sustainable Development, Institut Supérieur de Développement Rural (ISDR), P.O. Box 2849, Bukavu, South-Kivu, Congo
- Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Université Evangélique en Afrique (UEA), P.O. Box 3323, Bukavu, South-Kivu, Congo
- Faculty of Agronomy, Université Catholique de Bukavu (UCB), P.O. Box 285, Bukavu, South-Kivu, Congo
| | - Patient M. Zamukulu
- Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Université Evangélique en Afrique (UEA), P.O. Box 3323, Bukavu, South-Kivu, Congo
- Institut Supérieur D’Etudes Agronomiques et Vétérinaires (ISEAV), Walungu, South-Kivu, Congo
| | - Leonard K. Mubalama
- Department of Environment and Sustainable Development, Institut Supérieur de Développement Rural (ISDR), P.O. Box 2849, Bukavu, South-Kivu, Congo
| | - Gustave N. Mushagalusa
- Department of Environment and Sustainable Development, Institut Supérieur de Développement Rural (ISDR), P.O. Box 2849, Bukavu, South-Kivu, Congo
- Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Université Evangélique en Afrique (UEA), P.O. Box 3323, Bukavu, South-Kivu, Congo
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Chen Z, Li X, Xia X. The impact of internet use and cognitive conflict on farmer IPM technology adoption: evidence from China. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024. [PMID: 38856012 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Integrated pest management (IPM) plays a crucial role in protecting agricultural environments and enhancing the quality of agricultural products. However, a major challenge in China is the conflicting understanding of IPM among farmers, leading to low adoption rates. This undermines farmers' ability to control pests and diseases while increasing risks to agricultural quality and safety. This study aimed to investigate the impact of cognitive conflicts on farmers' adoption of IPM in kiwifruit farms in Shaanxi and Sichuan provinces. Additionally, the study explored the moderating role of internet use in the relationship between cognitive conflicts and farmer adoption of IPM. Data were collected from 686 kiwifruit farms through field surveys in 2018. The binary Probit model and moderating effect models were used to assess the influence of internet use and cognitive conflict on farmer adoption of IPM. RESULTS The study found that cognitive conflicts significantly hindered farmers' adoption of IPM. Higher levels of cognitive conflict were associated with lower likelihoods of adopting IPM. Internet use and frequency had positive effects on farmer adoption of IPM, promoting its implementation. Moreover, internet use and frequency helped alleviate the inhibitory effect of cognitive conflicts on farmer adoption IPM. CONCLUSION This research enhances our understanding of cognitive conflicts among farmers when promoting IPM and provides viable strategies to improve the effectiveness of public sector promotion and stimulate farmers' willingness to adopt IPM. It emphasizes the importance of addressing cognitive conflicts and utilizing internet resources to enhance IPM adoption among kiwifruit growers in China. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Chen
- School of Economics and Management, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- School of Economics and Management, Yantai University, Yantai, China
| | - Xianli Xia
- School of Economics and Management, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, China
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Aye TS, Jirapongsuwan A, Siri S. Pesticide safety behaviours among agricultural workers and farmers: A cross-sectional study. Int J Nurs Pract 2024; 30:e13222. [PMID: 38097357 DOI: 10.1111/ijn.13222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study is to investigate the pesticide safety behaviours and related factors among cabbage farmers in Kalaw Township, Myanmar. BACKGROUND Unsafe chemical pesticide practices affect farmers' health and the environment. Understanding pesticide safety behaviours is necessary for healthcare providers to protect agriculture workers against unwanted adverse health effects. METHODS The cross-sectional study was conducted among 195 cabbage farmers from March to May 2019. Safety behaviours and factors applied in the PRECEDE-PROCEDE model as a framework were assessed using questionnaires. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify any associations. RESULTS Altogether, 72.1% of the farmers had a low level of safety behaviours. Goggles and masks were rarely used before and during pesticide applications. All of the farmers experienced adverse health effects after using pesticides. The attitudes toward pesticide poisoning; support from family, co-workers and healthcare providers; and the availability of personal protective equipment were significantly associated with safety behaviours. CONCLUSION Our data provide novel empirical evidence for an opportunity to design effective nursing interventions to promote pesticide safety behaviours among Myanmar agricultural workers. Nurses should pay more attention to promoting comprehensive interventions to reduce both exposure and health effects among agricultural workers through the involvement of supported stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thant Sin Aye
- Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Ann Jirapongsuwan
- Department of Public Health Nursing, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Sukhontha Siri
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
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Suphim B, Songthap A. Factors affecting safe pesticide-use behaviors among farm plant agriculturists in northeastern Thailand. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1096. [PMID: 38643084 PMCID: PMC11032588 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18662-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pesticide poisoning is a major public health problem in Thailand and is the result of intensive inappropriate and unsafe use of pesticides. This analytical cross-sectional study aimed to determine the factors affecting safe pesticide-use behaviors among farm plant agriculturists in northeastern Thailand. METHODS The study sample included 427 farm plant agriculturists in Loei Province, northeastern Thailand. Individuals were randomly selected by a multistage random sampling technique. The following data were collected via a self-administered questionnaire consisting of 8 parts: (1) sociodemographic characteristics, (2) knowledge about pesticide use, (3) perceived severity of impact from pesticide use among farm plant agriculturists, (4) perceived susceptibility to pesticide use, (5) perceived self-efficacy in the modification of safe pesticide-use behaviors, (6) perceived outcome of the modification of safe pesticide-use behaviors, (7) social support, and (8) safe pesticide-use behaviors. Frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, and multiple regression analyses were employed for data analysis. RESULTS The majority of participants (79.4%) had high scores for safe pesticide-use behaviors among farm plant agriculturists (scores of 112-150). Factors that significantly affected safe pesticide-use behaviors included knowledge about pesticide use (β = 0.282), social support (β = 0.217), reading information from pesticide labels before pesticide use (β = 0.207), perceived self-efficacy (β = 0.186), female sex (β = -0.140), rice farmer status (β = 0.129), corn farmer status (β = 0.127), perceived susceptibility (β = 0.126), having received information from the internet (β = -0.124), and perceived severity (β = -0.098). Together, these 10 factors were found to explain 32.5% of the safe pesticide-use behaviors among farm plant agriculturists. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that there is a need to increase the number of promotional activities related to the safe use of pesticides through social support and training, with the aim of increasing the overall level of knowledge, perceived self-efficacy, perceived susceptibility, and modification of the perceived impact severity of pesticide use. Thus, relevant agencies should promote and support the safe use of pesticides by farm plant agriculturists. This study revealed that the factors affecting safe pesticide-use behaviors among farm plant agriculturists included knowledge about pesticide use, social support, reading pesticide container labels, perceived self-efficacy in the modification of pesticide-use behaviors, sex, rice farmer status, corn farmer status, perceived susceptibility to pesticide use, having received information from the internet, and perceived severity of impact from pesticide use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bunliang Suphim
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Public Health, Naresuan University, 99 Village 9, Thapho Subdistrict, Muang District, Phitsanulok Province, 65000, Thailand
| | - Archin Songthap
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Public Health, Naresuan University, 99 Village 9, Thapho Subdistrict, Muang District, Phitsanulok Province, 65000, Thailand.
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Kaur R, Choudhary D, Bali S, Bandral SS, Singh V, Ahmad MA, Rani N, Singh TG, Chandrasekaran B. Pesticides: An alarming detrimental to health and environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 915:170113. [PMID: 38232846 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170113] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Pesticides are chemical substances of natural or synthetic origin that are used to eradicate pests and insects. These are indispensable in the agricultural processes for better crop production. Pesticide use aims to promote crop yield and protect the crops from diseases and damage. Pesticides must be handled carefully and disposed of appropriately because they are dangerous to people and other species by default. Environmental pollution occurs when pesticide contamination spreads away from the intended plants. Older pesticides such as lindane and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) may remain in water and soil for a longer time. These accumulate in various parts of the food chain and cause damage to the ecosystem. Biological techniques in the management of pest control such as importation, augmentation, and conservation, and the accompanying procedures are more efficient, less expensive, and ecologically sound than other ways. This review mainly focuses on the consequences on the targeted and non-targeted organisms including the health and well-being of humans by the use of pesticides and their toxicity. The side effects that occur when a pesticide's LD50 exceeds the accepted limit through oral or skin penetration due to their binding to various receptors such as estrogen receptors, GABA, EGFR, and others. These pesticide classes include carbamates, pyrethroids, organochlorides, organophosphorus, and others. The current study seeks to highlight the urgent requirement for a novel agricultural concept that includes a major reduction in the use of chemical pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajwinder Kaur
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India.
| | - Diksha Choudhary
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Samriddhi Bali
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | | | - Varinder Singh
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Md Altamash Ahmad
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
| | - Nidhi Rani
- Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab 140401, India
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Ouakhssase A, Jalal M, Addi EA. Pesticide contamination pattern from Morocco, insights into the surveillance situation and health risk assessment: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:313. [PMID: 38416294 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12507-3] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
The widespread application of pesticides in Morocco's agriculture renders their monitoring in food and environmental samples very necessary. Recent years have witnessed a growing interest in reporting studies related to the monitoring of pesticide residues in food, water, groundwater, and soil as well as their quantitative health risk assessment. Most published studies have been done by university researchers. However, the lack of research reproducibility remains a problem that considerably limits the possibility of exploiting data from the literature. Our study involves an extensive literature review utilizing search engines with keywords like "pesticide residues," "monitoring," "vegetables and fruits," "water and soil," "risk assessment," and "Morocco" from 2009 to 2023. Analysis of pesticide residues in foodstuffs and environmental samples highlights concerns over compliance with EU regulations, the health risks associated with pesticide exposure, and the necessity for comprehensive monitoring and risk assessment strategies. This paper could help influence policies to develop a strategy and action plan for the sound management of pesticides, including measures to reduce their use, raise awareness, and monitor compliance. Also, this paper could be useful for scientists interested in understanding the current situation and challenges regarding pesticide residues in Morocco, as well as countries with which commercial links exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdallah Ouakhssase
- Laboratoire des Sciences de la Vie et de la Santé, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie de Tanger, Université Abdelmalek Essaâdi, Tétouan, Morocco.
| | - Mariam Jalal
- Laboratoire de Biologie Cellulaire et Génétique Moléculaire (LBCGM), Faculté des sciences, Université Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Elhabib Ait Addi
- Equipe de recherche Génie des procédés et Ingénierie Chimique (GPIC), Ecole Supérieure de Technologie d'Agadir, B.P: 33/S, Université Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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Cancino J, Soto K, Tapia J, Muñoz-Quezada MT, Lucero B, Contreras C, Moreno J. Occupational exposure to pesticides and symptoms of depression in agricultural workers. A systematic review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:116190. [PMID: 37217130 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of pesticides can result in harm to both the environment and human health. There is a growing concern in the field of occupational health about the impact on the mental health of agricultural workers. OBJECTIVES The objective of this review was to systematize scientific evidence from the last ten years on the impact of occupational exposure to pesticides on the development of depression symptoms in agricultural workers. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive search in the PubMed and Scopus databases from 2011 to September 2022. Our search included studies in English, Spanish, and Portuguese that examined the association between occupational exposure to pesticides and symptoms of depression in agricultural workers, following the guidelines recommended by the PRISMA statement and the PECO strategy (Population, Exposure, Comparison, and Outcomes). RESULTS Among the 27 articles reviewed, 78% of them indicated a link between exposure to pesticides and the incidence of depression symptoms. The pesticides most frequently reported in the studies were organophosphates (17 studies), herbicides (12 studies), and pyrethroids (11 studies). The majority of the studies were rated as having intermediate to intermediate-high quality, with the use of standardized measures to assess both exposure and effect. CONCLUSION The updated evidence presented in our review indicates a clear association between pesticide exposure and the development of depressive symptoms. However, more high-quality longitudinal studies are necessary to control for sociocultural variables and utilize pesticide-specific biomarkers and biomarkers of depression. Given the increased use of these chemicals and the health risks associated with depression, it is crucial to implement more stringent measures to monitor the mental health of agricultural workers regularly exposed to pesticides and to enhance surveillance of companies that apply these chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Cancino
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, Chile; The Neuropsychology and Cognitive Neurosciences Research Center CINPSI Neurocog, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Karly Soto
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, Chile; The Neuropsychology and Cognitive Neurosciences Research Center CINPSI Neurocog, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Joaquín Tapia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, Chile; The Neuropsychology and Cognitive Neurosciences Research Center CINPSI Neurocog, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - María Teresa Muñoz-Quezada
- The Neuropsychology and Cognitive Neurosciences Research Center CINPSI Neurocog, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile.
| | - Boris Lucero
- The Neuropsychology and Cognitive Neurosciences Research Center CINPSI Neurocog, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Caterina Contreras
- The Neuropsychology and Cognitive Neurosciences Research Center CINPSI Neurocog, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Jaime Moreno
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
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Straw EA, Kelly E, Stanley DA. Self-reported assessment of compliance with pesticide rules. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 254:114692. [PMID: 36950982 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114692] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
How pesticides are used is very important in determining the risk they pose to both the user, and the environment. Given they can have toxic properties, if pesticides are misused they could cause serious harm to the users health as well as a range of environmental damage. Despite this, very little research has quantified whether agricultural use of pesticides is compliant with the legally binding obligations and associated guidance surrounding application. In this survey we used an online, fully anonymous, questionnaire to ask Irish farmers about how they use pesticides. We used a self-reporting methodology, directly asking farmers about their compliance levels. We had a total of 76 unique valid respondents. Our respondents covered the broad range of Irish agriculture, and we quantified how this relates to national demographics. Overall compliance regarding pesticide use was high, with the majority of respondents complying the majority of the time. However, we also found a sizable group who report low compliance levels for certain topics. Respondents reported the highest levels of non-compliance with the use of personal protective equipment, with nearly half of all respondents admitting to not wearing certain required protective equipment on a regular basis. In contrast, for some areas like application rate, very high compliance was reported. Moderate levels of non-compliance with bee protective mitigation measures were found, and some reported practices like not emptying or washing out the spray tank between sprays could have serious impacts on pollinators, soil organisms and other non-targets. Additionally, a minority of respondents admitted to actions which could cause serious water course pollution. As the first survey on a range of pesticide compliance topics within a developed nation, the compliance seen is very high compared to levels in developing nations. Our results demonstrate that the assumption that all legal obligations and guidance surrounding pesticide use are followed is unfounded, but that the majority of the respondents are mostly compliant. Education or enforcement should be targeted to certain areas where compliance is weakest to minimise harm from pesticide use. Reducing the non-compliance we report here could benefit both farmer and environmental health, and ensure that pesticides are used in a manner that risk assessment has deemed safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward A Straw
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Edel Kelly
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dara A Stanley
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Berni I, Menouni A, Creta M, El Ghazi I, Duca RC, Godderis L, El Jaafari S. Exposure of children to glyphosate in Morocco: Urinary levels and predictors of exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 217:114868. [PMID: 36417941 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate is one of the most frequently used organophosphorus plant protection products worldwide, and has recently been classified as probably carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research and Cancer (IARC). We aimed to evaluate the urinary levels of glyphosate and its metabolite aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) in Moroccan children, to identify the main predictors and to perform a risk assessment. Data was collected during a cross sectional study of 48 children from an intensive agricultural area. Measurements included a questionnaire on life-style, socio-demographic and herbicide exposures. Urinary glyphosate and AMPA were extracted using solid phase extraction (SPE) and analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Overall, glyphosate and AMPA were detected in 73% and 75% of urine samples, respectively. The mean concentrations were 0.97 μg L-1 (2.06 μg/gcreatinine) for glyphosate and 0.79 μg L-1 (1.52 μg/gcreatinine) for AMPA. Children younger than 5 years had a higher AMPA and glyphosate urine concentration (mean = 2.24 μg L-1; estimation coefficient (EC) = 1.39; 95% CI: 0.54-2.24) (mean = 4.05 μg L-1; EC = 2.92; 95% CI: 1.68-4.15), respectively, than children aged 6-12. Children living near the pesticide spraying fields (<50 m) had 14.91 μg L-1 and 2.35 μg L-1 more glyphosate and AMPA, respectively, than children living in urban counties (95% CI: 8.14-20.91 for glyphosate and 95% CI: 0.55-4.14 for AMPA). AMPA concentration varied significantly with the source of drinking water, AMPA was higher among children that used water from open water sources (mean = 1.49 μg L-1; EC = 2.98; 95% CI/0.67-5.78) compared to those using water from closed water sources. There were also non-significant associations found, such as total household net income, current parental job description, and dietary intake. With the regard to the health risk assessment, estimated daily intake (EDIs), hazard quotient (HQs), and a hazard index (HI) were calculated. The GMs of EDI were 4.38 and 2.26 μg/kg of body weight BW/day for glyphosate and AMPA, respectively. The HQs were calculated considering 0.5 mg/kg BW/day as an acceptable daily intake (ADI), which EFSA has established as a health-based reference value for both analytes. The value obtained were lower than 1, and therefore, low health risk due to glyphosate and AMPA was expected for the target population under the study. This study provides further evidence on factors associated with glyphosate exposure, especially in developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imane Berni
- Cluster of Competency "Health and Environment", Moulay Ismail University, Meknes, Morocco.
| | - Aziza Menouni
- Cluster of Competency "Health and Environment", Moulay Ismail University, Meknes, Morocco; Environment and Health Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Matteo Creta
- Environment and Health Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ibrahim El Ghazi
- Cluster of Competency "Health and Environment", Moulay Ismail University, Meknes, Morocco
| | - Radu-Corneliu Duca
- Environment and Health Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Unit Environmental Hygiene and Human Biological Monitoring, Department of Health Protection, National Health Laboratory (LNS), Dudelange, Luxembourg
| | - Lode Godderis
- Environment and Health Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; IDEWE, External Service for Prevention and Protection at Work, Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Samir El Jaafari
- Cluster of Competency "Health and Environment", Moulay Ismail University, Meknes, Morocco
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Boateng KO, Dankyi E, Amponsah IK, Awudzi GK, Amponsah E, Darko G. Knowledge, perception, and pesticide application practices among smallholder cocoa farmers in four Ghanaian cocoa-growing regions. Toxicol Rep 2022; 10:46-55. [PMID: 36583134 PMCID: PMC9792701 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pesticides are widely used in Ghana, especially in cocoa farming. However, the practice is suboptimal and unsupervised. Incorrect use of these chemicals can seriously harm human health, the environment, and economies that rely on these farmers' output. The study assessed cocoa farmers' pesticide knowledge, practices, and risk perception. Four hundred and four cocoa farmers were chosen randomly from 26 communities in four cocoa-growing regions of Ghana to answer questions about their risk knowledge, awareness, and practices, including personal protective equipment, storage and disposal of leftover pesticides, and used containers. The study revealed that 87% of the respondents belonged to cooperatives and certification groups. There was a significant positive relationship between group membership and benefits derived from inputs and training in pesticide use. About 70% of insecticides used were approved by the Ghana Cocoa Board, with neonicotinoids and pyrethroids being the most highly used insecticide classes in cocoa farms. Although farmers claimed adequate pesticide knowledge, this did not translate into practice, with the majority exhibiting improper pesticide storage, application, and disposal practices. Farmers appeared to know a lot but lacked the skills and attitude to put their knowledge to use. The improper practices appear to manifest in a variety of health symptoms experienced by farmers as a result of chemical exposure. The findings from this study suggest that cocoa farmers in Ghana require adequate practical training and support on pesticide use to reduce their associated health risks, protect the environment and ensure sustainable cocoa production in the world's second-largest cocoa bean exporter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwame Osei Boateng
- Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | - Enock Dankyi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Isaac Kingsley Amponsah
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | | | - Emmanuel Amponsah
- Department of Planning, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana
| | - Godfred Darko
- Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana,Corresponding author.
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Tahiri NELH, Saghrouchni H, Hamamouch N, Khomsi ME, Alzahrani A, Salamatullah AM, Badiaa L, Lrhorfi LA. Treatment with Glyphosate Induces Tolerance of Citrus Pathogens to Glyphosate and Fungicides but Not to 1,8-Cineole. Molecules 2022; 27:8300. [PMID: 36500391 PMCID: PMC9737398 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27238300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
During the postharvest period, citrus fruits are exposed to Penicillium italicum, Penicillium digitatum, and Geotrichum candidum. Pesticides such as imazalil (IMZ), thiabendazole (TBZ), orthophenylphenol (OPP), and guazatine (GUA) are commonly used as antifungals. Glyphosate (GP) is also used in citrus fields to eliminate weed growth. The sensitivity of fungal pathogens of citrus fruit to these pesticides and 1,8-cineole was evaluated, and the effect of GP on the development of cross-resistance to other chemicals was monitored over a period of 3 weeks. IMZ most effectively inhibited the mycelial growth and spore germination of P. digitatum and P. italicum, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 0.01 and 0.05 mg/mL, respectively, followed by 1,8-cineole, GP, and TBZ. 1,8-Cineole and GP more effectively inhibited the mycelial growth and spore germination of G. candidum, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 0.2 and 1.0 mg/mL, respectively, than OPP or GUA. For the spore germination assay, all substances tested showed a total inhibitory effect. Subculturing the fungal strains in culture media containing increasing concentrations of GP induced fungal tolerance to GP as well as to the fungicides. In soil, experiments confirmed that GP induced the tolerance of P. digitatum to TBZ and GP and the tolerance of P. italicum to IMZ, TBZ, and GP. However, no tolerance was recorded against 1,8-cineole. In conclusion, it can be said that 1,8-cineole may be recommended as an alternative to conventional fungicides. In addition, these results indicate that caution should be taken when using GP in citrus fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nor EL Houda Tahiri
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Biotechnologies and Health and Environment, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, B.P. 133, Kenitra 14000, Morocco; (N.E.H.T.); (L.A.L.)
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health and Quality of Life, Faculty of Sciences Dhar El Mahraz, University of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez 30000, Morocco; (N.H.); (L.B.)
| | - Hamza Saghrouchni
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Natural and Applied Sciences, Çukurova University, Balcalı/Sarıçam, 01330 Adana, Turkey
| | - Noureddine Hamamouch
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health and Quality of Life, Faculty of Sciences Dhar El Mahraz, University of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez 30000, Morocco; (N.H.); (L.B.)
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Mostafa El Khomsi
- Natural Resources and Sustainable Development Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, B.P. 133, Kenitra 14000, Morocco;
| | - Abdulhakeem Alzahrani
- Department of Food Science & Nutrition, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, 11 P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (A.M.S.)
| | - Ahmad Mohammad Salamatullah
- Department of Food Science & Nutrition, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, 11 P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (A.M.S.)
| | - Lyoussi Badiaa
- Laboratory of Natural Substances, Pharmacology, Environment, Modeling, Health and Quality of Life, Faculty of Sciences Dhar El Mahraz, University of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fez 30000, Morocco; (N.H.); (L.B.)
| | - Lalla Aicha Lrhorfi
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Biotechnologies and Health and Environment, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, B.P. 133, Kenitra 14000, Morocco; (N.E.H.T.); (L.A.L.)
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Pesticide Exposure in Relation to the Incidence of Abnormal Glucose Regulation: A Retrospective Cohort Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127550. [PMID: 35742799 PMCID: PMC9223857 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes and prediabetes (called abnormal glucose regulation (AGR)) are adverse health effects associated with exposure to pesticides. However, there are few epidemiological studies on the relationship between pesticide use and the incidence of AGR. We examined the causal relationship between pesticide use and AGR incidence in a rural population using data from a Korean Farmers’ Cohort study of 1076 participants. Poisson regression with robust error variance was used to calculate the relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to estimate the relationship between pesticide exposure and AGR. The incidence of AGR in the pesticide-exposed group was 29.1%. Pesticide use increased the RR of AGR (RR 1.32, 95% CI 1.03–1.69). We observed a low-dose effect related to exposure of pesticides to AGR and a U-shaped dose–response relationship in men. Pesticide exposure is related to the incidence of AGR, and the causal relationship differs between men and women.
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