Nexus of pesticide exposure, personal preventive measures and farm workers’ health safety in cotton production

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to assess the prevalence and possible predictors of health hazards and their effects on health cost of pesticide applicators and non-applicators. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 580 farm households using multistage sampling technique. The pesticide applicators and non-applicators involved in cotton production were interviewers by the survey team. The prevalence of occupational hazards was higher among the pesticide applicators than non-applicators. Logit regression analysis revealed that the more educated, well trained workers were relatively less vulnerable. Similarly, personal protective measures such as wearing boots and protective handkerchief, and taking bath after pesticide application reduced probability of health risk. Prolonged exposure to pesticide, distance from hospital, and smoking habits were risk factors for development of occupational hazards among the pesticide applicators and non-applicators. The total mean score of health cost resulting from occupational hazards was significantly lower in pesticide non-applicators than pesticide applicators. Workers involved in pesticide application are at higher risk for developing occupational hazards that adversely affects general health and quality of life. The study urges policymakers to formulate programs for proper training of farm workers, encouraging the use of personal preventive measures and the provision of health facilities to farm workers. This will not only improve health of workers but also save undue expenses on medical treatment.