Pesticides Usage, Perceptions, Practices and Health  Effects among Farmers in North Gaza , Palestine

Dr. Bassam . F.  Al-zain; Mr.Jihad mosalami

Volume : IV, Issue : VI, June - 2014

Pesticides Usage, Perceptions, Practices and Health Effects among Farmers in North Gaza , Palestine

Dr. Bassam . F. Al Zain, Mr. Jihad Mosalami

Abstract :

Background: Pesticides are used for pest management and vector control in agricultural areas, but many farming communities are not adequately informed about the hazards associated with the chemicals . As a result, farmers use pesticides without full understanding of their impact on human health and environment. Although their unfavorable effects on environment quality and human health, they have been randomly used by most farmers. Methods: A cross–sectional randomized approach was used to investigate the practices, perception, behaviors of ninety five in four agricultural communities in North Gaza (Al–Atatra, Abu–Halob, Tean Wanis and Abu–Halema areas). Based on the tools of the study (questionnaires and interviews), results were analyzed using Pearson Chi–square test, Student ttest and ANOVA.Results: The results of this survey indicated a wide variety of chemicals were being applied and sprayed as pesticides by the farmers. Although 36 different pesticides were reported by farmers which were being used in North Gaza, yet it could practically be lower than the actual number of pesticides being applied. The vegetable farmers depended heavily on use of pesticides for control of different pests and diseases. Majority of pesticides were insecticides ,fungicides and few herbicides were also being used in the studied area. The study showed that the literate farmers had higher percent of healthy behavior than the illiterate ones; most illiterate farmers didnt use protection tools during using pesticides and vegetable harvesting. Moreover, they overuse, misuse, and neither aware of safe handling nor proper disposal of empty containers. Only 29% of the farmers attended general agricultural training courses. Pesticide–related health symptoms (Dizziness, Breathlessness, headache, Cough and Nausea) are observed. The results will contribute to the reformation of pesticide policies in Gaza Strip. Conclusion: The study demand that the governmental, the NGOs and the interested parties should cooperate to minimize the environmental and health risks caused by the misuse of pesticides.