Resumo

RAMIREZ-MORA, E. et al. Occupational exposure to pesticides in sugarcane agroecosystems in the central region of Veracruz state, Mexico. Revista bio ciencias [online]. 2019, vol.6, e495.  Epub 02-Out-2020. ISSN 2007-3380.  https://doi.org/10.15741/revbio.06.e495.

Pesticides are worldwide used in industrial agriculture to control pests, diseases, and weeds. The main aim of this research was to describe those practices for pesticide use and their relationship with occupational exposure symptoms among sugarcane farmers in the central region of Veracruz, Mexico. A total of 147 interviews were carried out: 74 to sugarcane farmers, 35 to farmer-applicators, and 38 to applicators. Practices of use, pesticides, and Pesticide Use Quality Index (QPUI1) were identified. The results indicate that farmers choose the pesticide for its effectiveness and their experience; 78 % leave the containers in the field or incinerate them, 94 % do not know the time required for entering the sugarcane field after the application, and 18% lacks of a complete personal protective equipment. The PQUI was statistically significant (Tukey, p≤0.05) for the applicators. It is concluded that occupational exposure to pesticides in the study area is relatively high, level of education has a relevant role in adopting good practices for pesticides use, and that a strong link exists between exposure to pesticides and health problems.

Palavras-chave : Farmer; occupational exposure; Mexico; pesticides; rural worker.