Pesticides and farmers’ health: an analysis of variables related to management and property

Abstract

The objective is to verify the effects of pesticides on the health of farmers in the southern region of Brazil, as well as the possible symptoms and cases of intoxication. This study has a quantitative, descriptive and exploratory approach, carried out in 12 agricultural locations in the municipality of Serra Catarinense. This research was approved by the research ethics committee and was applied through a structured questionnaire to 79 farmers who grow grains in the conventional cultivation system. The pesticide most used by farmers was glyphosate, followed by acephate. Of the individuals, 21.5% reported that they had suffered poisoning by pesticides by the respiratory route (58.8%). In addition, 28% had three symptoms of intoxication, demonstrating possible probable cases of intoxication. And 41% of workers reported headaches as a predominant symptom in applications with the use of pesticides, followed by dizziness/vertigo (16%).Farmers who use PPE during the preparation of the pesticide spray are neither chronic diseases (p<0.003) nor psychological problems (p<0.000). All four individuals who had cancer, all also eat while applying pesticides (p<0.049). The exposure to pesticides causes changes in the organism of those exposed, using them more vulnerable to health problems.

Use and Management of Pesticides in Agricultural Areas of the State of Guerrero, Mexico

“…Farmers from three agricultural areas (La Ceniza, Chichihualco and Quechultenango), 90 to 99% did not use personal protective equipment (PPE) when applying the pesticide, and therefore had the highest prevalence of acute poisoning 61.54%, 18.45% and 21.0% respectively; Other authors such as Evaristo et al (2022), in their research, report that 32.5% of farmers in the southern region of Brazil do not use PPE due to the excessive heat it causes and 21.5% reported having suffered pesticide poisoning. Zheng et al (2023) al (2021) points out that the low use of PPE is mainly due to farmers' lack of awareness, availability and high cost, and the discomfort they experience when using it due to the heat.…”

“…Guzmán-Plazola et al (2016) mention that the risk of suffering acute poisoning from pesticides is related to the absence of technical knowledge, lack of training in the management and use of agrochemicals, and little information from commercial companies. Other authors, such as Evaristo et al (2022), mention that people exposed to pesticides cause changes in their bodies and make them more vulnerable to health problems.…”

Development of the Dermal Effect of Pesticides on Professional Contingents Using Innovative 3rive 3d Technology

“…Despite their popularity and widespread use, pesticides have raised serious concerns about the health risks posed by exposure to farmers during their work. It is obvious that exposure to pesticides is a constant health hazard, especially in the agricultural work environment [5,10].…”