Effect of Occupational Exposure of Pesticides on Health of Farmers of the Agricultural Fields of Sorbhug Area of Lower Assam

Background-Indiscriminate use of pesticides in the agricultural field is a matter of concern. This study was conducted in Sorbhug area of Barpeta district, Assam on 14 villages on the work practice, different types of pesticides used, and sign and symptoms of the illness of the agriculture workers who are directly exposed to pesticides. To assess the magnitude and intensity of occupational intoxication, the study was conducted on 150 volunteer farmers covering interview and clinical examination. Out of 150 farmers, 100 farmers were selected directly from the agricultural field and taken as exposed group, and 50 were selected as control group. Control group was engaged in agricultural activity other than spraying of pesticides. All the data were subjected to statistical analysis, and chi square test was performed for proportions and relative risk. P-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. More than 60% of farmers used highly hazardous pesticides and 35% farmers used moderately hazardous pesticides. 5 % farmers used mild exposure of pesticide. They obtained pesticide related information from pesticide retail shop owner. They were reported to have the sign and symptoms of pesticide intoxication like high blood pressure (2%, RR=.41), asthma (20%, RR=.95), depression (73%, RR=1.5), running nose (30%, RR= 1.6), watery itchy eyes (60%, RR=1.5), dizziness (90%, RR=.68), loss of appetite (72%, RR=1.6), and feeling excessively angry (87%, RR= 1.2). The studies showed that the pesticide intoxications were common among the spray man of the agricultural workers. Pesticides pose probably one of the largest toxicological problems in the third world countries especially in India. Combined action of local authorities, society and international bodies may limit the pesticide related health hazards in these countries.