Evaluating the perception of farmers towards pesticides and the health effect of pesticides: A cross-sectional study in the oil palm plantations of Papar, Malaysia

Abstract

Agriculture is an important occupation in Malaysia that generates a major portion of the national revenue. Similar to the rest of the world, pesticides are used to boost agricultural production in Malaysian farms. However, chemical pesticides are associated with human health hazard and are not environment-friendly as they persist in nature for long periods of time. Therefore, pesticide use should be reduced and farmers should be trained on correct and/or alternative ways of pesticide use. In this cross-sectional study, we surveyed 19 palm oil plantations in the Sabah district of Malaysia and evaluated the perception of the workers towards pesticide use and awareness regarding the health effects post-pesticide exposure. Analysis of the survey shows that most of the workers among the 270 respondents were 30-year-old males with average education, and belonged to the low income group. Majority opined that they were aware of the health hazards of pesticide use and suffered from symptoms (with mean duration of three days) such as vomiting, diarrhea, skin irritation, and dizziness. Surprisingly, the opinion was almost equally divided on whether they perceived pesticides to be the cause of their health problems, and a major percentage did not avail medical help. Most of the workers responded that they did not receive any training in pesticide handling and used partial personal protective equipment (glasses, hats, shirt, and gloves) during working hours. Interestingly, a large percentage responded that they would not read the safety material even if it was provided. These observations clearly highlight the urgency of improving the awareness, education, and attitude of these plantation workers towards the short- and long-term effects of pesticide use. They should also be educated about alternative and eco-friendly ways of farming. Finally, the plantation management should intervene and proactively advocate the use of safe farming practices.

Fungal corneal ulcers: our 5-year experience in Bintulu

“…According to a study conducted in east Malaysia in 2019, the mean age of palm oil plantation workers was 30 years old, with males dominating the industry by 80%. 30 Male preponderance in this infection was evident with a male-to-female ratio of 5.5:1, mostly related to occupational ocular trauma. Men are also known to be more actively involved in outdoor activities and frequent contact with soil and nature, predisposing them to a greater exposure to fungal pathogens.…”

“…A study done in west Malaysia reported that most palm oil plantation workers are on low incomes. 30 Many palm oil companies subscribe insurance for their employees. However, some faile to do so, leading to inability to afford medical expenses when unfortunate events occur.…”

Assessment of the susceptibility status of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) from Interior, Sandakan and Tawau divisions of Sabah, Malaysia based on WHO diagnostic doses of larvicides

“…The decision regarding pesticide concentration, frequency of application or type of pesticides were all decided internally (Wan-Norafikah et al, 2020). Aggravatingly, in small scale plantations, farmers were oblivious on correct handling of pesticide application (Sulaiman et al, 2019). They tend to re-use the same pesticide and increase its concentration when it is no longer effective.…”

Application of Pesticides Act 1974 In Protecting Community and Environment Health in Malaysia From the Exposure of Pesticides

“…Agriculture is an important occupation in Malaysia that generates a major portion of the national revenue. Similar to the rest of the world, pesticides are used to boost agricultural production in Malaysian farms (Sulaiman et al, 2019) which farming practices involve the use of pesticides on various vegetables, fruits, paddy, rubber and palm oil plantations (Bakar, 2009). Pesticide can be defined as any substance or chemical that being used by people to destroy the harmful living things (Higgins and Burns, 1975).…”