Abstract
It has been shown that farmers with limited knowledge of the use and safe handling of pesticides may suffer exposure which results in adverse health effects. In Buea, Cameroon, small-scale tomato farmers commonly use pesticides for pest control. Information was obtained from these tomato farmers to determine the extent and types of their pesticide use, their knowledge of pesticide use and effectiveness, and their perception of potential harm resulting from pesticide use. A standardized questionnaire, interviews, field observations and an analytical ranking game were used to describe the pesticide use of 93 tomato farmers. Many farmers (47.6%) used pyrethiod and organophosphorus insecticides and identified these chemicals as the most effective in pesticide control; these are WHO Class II pesticides which are the most hazardous to humans. Most farmers (83.8%) used knapsack sprayers to apply pesticides, with 76.3% using no or partial personal protective equipment (PPE). It was notable that 55.5% of farmers expressed no concern regarding the wind direction (pesticide drift) during spraying. The results showed a significant association between the method of pesticides application and farm size (P < 0.001). Most farmers (85.0%) reported at least one symptom of acute pesticide poisoning following spraying. This study revealed that the tomato farmers have a high exposure to pesticides secondary to inadequate knowledge of the safe and judicious use of pesticides. Strategies that provide training on the appropriate use of pesticides, how to reduce exposure to and health risks of pesticides and alternative options of pest management and control are required. The study also raised concerns that further control of the sale and distribution of pesticides may be indicated.
Highlights
Pests are known to negatively impact crop production as well as the health of communities and nations
This study provides valuable information concerning the trend in pesticide knowledge, attitudes, and use in a community of small-scale tomato farmers in Buea, Cameroon
Knowledge deficits included the use of protective equipment (PPE) when applying pesticides, the proper handling and disposal of pesticides, and the possible individual, family and community health impact of pesticide use
Summary
Pests are known to negatively impact crop production as well as the health of communities and nations. In Cameroon, farmers have traditionally used wood ash and animal droppings (mixed with water) to control pests and plant disease. These methods are ineffective and do not improve crop production. As in many African Nations, Cameroon has seen a population shift from rural to urban areas which have increased the demand for vegetables in towns and cities To meet this need, small-scale farmers are cultivating their crops in semi-urban and urban areas. Farmers consider pesticide use to be labor saving, as well as an effective and efficient tool which controls pests Farmers and their communities are raising concerns about the environmental impact, and the public health effect upon their families and community
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