Risk Perception And Risk Communication Regarding Pesticides Use In Agriculture Among Students From A Rural School In Nova Friburgo, Rio De Janeiro State, Brazil

Abstract

Background: Youth in Nova Friburgo, Southeast Brazil engage in agriculture at younger ages, some of them manipulating pesticides and other toxic chemicals. Objectives: Our study aims to analyze teenagers' risk perception regarding pesticides use in local agriculture and evaluate the effectiveness of a tailored risk communication strategy. Methods: A risk perception study was conducted using VIPP (Visualization in Participatory Program) techniques through group workshops with students (n=27, 12-17 years old) attending the 9th grade at a rural school in Vargem Alta, rural Nova Friburgo. Based on study results, tailored risk communication strategies were developed to these students and younger ones (at 5th grade, n=16, 10-14 years old) and evaluated through group workshop discussions. Data was transcribed and categorized using Content Analysis. Results: Teenagers were able identify safe and unsafe working practices, but most agreed that unsafe practices are utilized by them and their parents. Students relied more on parent's information on the subject than those discussed at school. Children respond more effectively to the risk communication strategy (activities based on a comic book reading) than teenagers. The use of real life situations, attractive layout and use of comic books were identified as positive aspects, while teenagers found the messages infantile. Conclusions: Data suggests that gaps exist between messages learned in school and its adaptation to the reality of work. Tailored risk communication strategies are effective when age adjusted. One might conclude that youth in the community are still a vulnerable group, regardless of the continued efforts by their teachers.