Knowledge, attitude and practices of farmers about pesticide use, risks, and wastes; a cross-sectional study (Kermanshah, Iran)

Abstract

This study was aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and behavior of farmers about the pesticide use and wastes, and to determine the factors affecting the use of pesticides and their health effects, in agricultural lands located in Kermanshah province, western Iran. Three hundred eleven (311) farmers were included in this study, and filled a structured questionnaire containing questions about their basic information, their knowledge and attitude regarding pesticides, and their practices for pesticide disposal. In addition, the type and amount of pesticide consumption, and the health symptoms during the last year were recorded. Prevalence ratios and linear regression were used to evaluate the association between the different factors, and health symptoms and the amount of pesticide use, respectively. The majority of respondents had not been trained formally for the use of pesticides before. Approximately 10%, 45%, and 17% of pesticides contained highly hazardous, moderately hazardous, and slightly hazardous compounds, respectively. The farmers mainly had incorrect knowledge about pesticides and their risks, and used incorrect and high-risk methods for handling and application of pesticides and relevant wastes. Health symptoms were more associated with age ≥ 65, having no education, having income < 482 USD, not trained for pesticide use, and applying highly hazardous pesticides. In addition, the factors contributing to the amount of pesticide use included age, education level, and pesticide training. In order to reduce the amount of pesticide released to the environment, comprehensive training programs and implementing a waste management system could be effective.