Pesticide use and health hazards among small-scale commercial vegetable growers in the central highland region of Vietnam

Abstract

Pesticides are widely used to control insect-pests and diseases in vegetable production in Vietnam. There is increasing concern on the adverse effects of pesticides on human health and the environment. This study, a questionnaire-based survey, was conducted to investigate pesticide use and pest management practices in vegetable production, and related socio-economic status and health issues. Results revealed that vegetable production in Vietnam was male-dominated, and its economy encouraged use of pesticides (78%). Pesticides were extensively used with insecticides (35%), fungicides (32%) and herbicides (33%). Frequently pesticides were mixed and applied (90%) to synergize the effect. The frequency of pesticide applications was high and the highlighted pre-harvest interval appeared not respected. Many types of pesticides used belonged to highly toxic pesticides (WHO class II) such as cypermethrin, permethrin, cartap, imidacloprid, copper hydroxide and paraquat. Inadequate safety measures and knowledge were key weaknesses. Various health problems, such as headache, eye and nose irritations, dizziness, and nausea were common among the growers. In order to alleviate issues connected with pesticides, farmer education on pesticide based and non-pesticide based as well as the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices for reducing pesticide-use needs to be swiftly strengthened.