Assessment on knowledge and perception regarding health risks of pesticide usage among farmers

Globally, pesticides are essential substances that have significant importance in increasing food production and pest management. Although, the serious concern about the health risk of pesticide toxicity should be investigated. The aim of the study is to assess the knowledge and perception of health risks of pesticide usage among farmers. This online-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among farmers in Namakkal district, Tamil Nadu, India. A validated questionnaire was prepared, assessing the sociodemographic and analyzing the level of awareness, perception of pesticide usage among farmers. There were 412 farmers participated, in which 98.5% use pesticides and among them, 72.4% of farmers do not use personal protective equipment (PPE) on pesticide application. Hence, 68% are not aware of the harmful effects of pesticides even though 94.5% experienced health related problems while using them. Therefore, 95.4% of farmers think it is necessary to create awareness about safe handling practices and health risks regarding the usage of pesticides. Our study revealed that farmers do not have adequate knowledge about safe pesticide handling and are not aware of pesticide toxicity levels along with the risk associated with the degree of toxicity which is essential for implementing strategies regarding pesticide safety education and training.