Promotion of Possible Protective Methods for Farmers During Exposure to Pesticides (Diazinon): A Policy Summary

Abstract

According to the estimates of the World Health Organization (WHO), more than three million poisonings with organophosphorus derivatives occur every year, and in the meantime, more than 250000 deaths will occur in the future. Globally, 30% of suicide cases occur with the use of organophosphorus derivatives. Organophosphorus toxins are widely used due to their stability and low cumulative effects on the ecosystem. Diazinon, as one of the organophosphates, is widely utilized in agriculture and veterinary medicine. This poison is highly toxic to humans and animals. As stated by various studies, stores of unauthorized supply of poisons and lack of proper monitoring of the permissible limit of poisons, as well as the sale of poisons without a prescription, farmers’ ignorance, and indiscriminate planting of crops that are not based on traditional agriculture, can be caused by various factors related to improper use. In addition, the excessive use of pesticides and agricultural poisons can cause short- and long-term effects on health. Enhancing the antioxidant capacity is an effective solution to weaken the toxic effects of diazinon. Garlic and garlic supplements are used in many countries for their blood lipid-lowering, anti-platelet effects, and beneficial blood circulation. Some garlic products seem to have liver-protective, immune-system-enhancing, and anticancer, chemical-preventive, and antioxidant activities. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of garlic oil have been shown in different tissues. In today’s world, an effective solution/ decision-making for such problems based on evidence is recommended by compiling a policy brief. Therefore, to demonstrate evidence-based policy options, taking into account the existing obstacles and opportunities, it seems necessary to use intervention strategies and planning to reduce the consumption of pesticides and increase the level of protection for farmers.