Health status and pesticide exposure level of terrestrial pesticide applicators in Córdoba, Argentina

Abstract

Pesticide exposure in rural areas affects a sector of the population that is highly exposed and very vulnerable. Thus, agricultural workers represent a highly vulnerable population to the toxic effects of pesticide exposure. The rural area of Cordoba dedicated to extensive crops (soybean, corn, sorghum, peanuts, wheat and sunflower) experienced a rapid expansion in the last 20 years, with 7.3 million hectares in 2011/2012. The technological farming model used in the region requires increasing amounts of chemicals, to control pests, leading to a particular setting of sanitary risk to farm workers and rural communities. The study of health impacts of pesticides and the accurate estimation of pesticide exposure is of major concern in public health. This cross sectional study aimed to describe the health conditions of terrestrial pesticide applicators in Córdoba Province, Argentina, in relation to their pesticide exposure level.