The occurrence of occupational pesticide hazards in intensive vegetable production in India

Health risks related to the use of pesticides are known and have been documented among farmers and farm workers in India for several crops but not for vegetables. The present study examines health hazards among brassica growers in Karnataka, Gujarat, and West Bengal and identifies factors that influence the occurrence of occupational pesticide hazards. A structured questionnaire was administered to 290 farmers in 59 randomly selected villages. A multinomial logistic regression model was developed to reveal which factors influence the number of signs and symptoms caused by pesticide exposure. About 32% of interviewed vegetable producers experienced no negative health effect, 23% reported between one and three, and 44% experienced four to twelve signs and symptoms. Forty percent used extremely hazardous and highly toxic pesticides, 28% applied more than the recommended dose, and almost 70% spilled pesticide on their bodies. Results showed farmers’ risk awareness, their location, and pesticide spillage had a significant influence on the number of signs and symptoms experienced. Farmers seemed to develop increased risk awareness only through trial and error. Any extension approach should therefore emphasize on information on negative health effects to increase farmers’ risk awareness. The economic loss small-scale farmers incur annually through the ineffective overuse of pesticides in crucifer production in India should be quantified