Strategy For Prevention Of Pesticide Poisoning In Horticultural Farmers In Jorlang Hataran District, Simalungun Regency In 2005

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Prevention Strategy for Pesticide Poisoning in Horticultural Farmers in Jorlang Hataran District, Simalungun Regency in 2005

Introduction

Pesticides have become an essential tool in modern agriculture, playing a vital role in improving crop yields and community welfare, particularly for horticultural farmers. However, the misuse of pesticides can have devastating consequences, including poisoning for farmers. In 2005, a research study was conducted in Jorlang Hataran District, Simalungun Regency to develop a strategy for preventing pesticide poisoning among horticultural farmers.

Background

The use of pesticides has become widespread in agriculture, and their importance cannot be overstated. However, the improper use of these chemicals can have severe health consequences for farmers, including poisoning. In many developing countries, including Indonesia, the lack of awareness and education about the safe use of pesticides contributes to the high incidence of pesticide poisoning among farmers.

Research Methodology

This study employed an analytic study design with a case-control approach, where researchers compared farmers who experienced pesticide poisoning (cases) with those who did not (controls). A total of 144 farmers were selected using simple random sampling, considering factors such as sex and age. The data analysis methods used included univariate analysis, bivariate analysis using the Chi Square test, and multivariate analysis through double logistics regression.

Results

The study found several factors related to the incidence of pesticide poisoning, including:

  • Bad nutritional status: Farmers with poor nutritional status were more likely to experience pesticide poisoning.
  • Inappropriate pesticide doses: The use of pesticide doses that were not as recommended increased the risk of poisoning.
  • Lack of personal protective equipment (PPE): Farmers who did not use PPE were more likely to experience poisoning.
  • Body cleanliness: Poor body cleanliness was associated with a higher risk of pesticide poisoning.
  • Condition of the sprayer used: The condition of the sprayer used was also a significant factor in the incidence of pesticide poisoning.

The Chi Square test results showed a significant relationship between these factors and pesticide poisoning (P < 0.05). However, the level of education of farmers and the types of pesticides used did not indicate a significant relationship.

Discussion

Further analysis using double logistics regression showed that bad nutritional status, inappropriate use of pesticide doses, and the absence of PPE were significant factors contributing to the incidence of pesticide poisoning, accounting for 72.9% of the cases. This finding highlights the importance of attention to farmers' health and safety in the use of pesticides.

Conclusion

The results of this study emphasize the need for cross-sectoral cooperation between the Health and Agriculture Services to develop an effective extension program. This effort should include:

  • Increased farmer group organizations: Counseling farmers about the safe use of pesticides and the importance of PPE.
  • Procurement of affordable PPE: Through farmers' cooperatives to prevent pesticide poisoning and environmental pollution.
  • Integrated and collaborative approach: To protect the health of farmers, prevent soil, water, and air pollution, and have a positive impact on the food chain.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

  • Develop an effective extension program: To educate farmers about the safe use of pesticides and the importance of PPE.
  • Increase farmer group organizations: To provide counseling and support to farmers.
  • Procure affordable PPE: Through farmers' cooperatives to prevent pesticide poisoning and environmental pollution.
  • Implement an integrated and collaborative approach: To protect the health of farmers, prevent soil, water, and air pollution, and have a positive impact on the food chain.

Limitations

This study has several limitations, including:

  • Small sample size: The study only included 144 farmers, which may not be representative of the larger population.
  • Limited scope: The study only focused on horticultural farmers in Jorlang Hataran District, Simalungun Regency.
  • Data collection methods: The study relied on self-reported data, which may be subject to bias.

Future Research Directions

Future research should aim to:

  • Expand the sample size: To include a larger and more representative sample of farmers.
  • Increase the scope: To include other types of farmers and regions.
  • Use more robust data collection methods: To reduce bias and increase the validity of the findings.

References

  • [List of references cited in the study]

Appendices

  • [Appendices, including additional tables and figures]
    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Prevention Strategy for Pesticide Poisoning in Horticultural Farmers in Jorlang Hataran District, Simalungun Regency in 2005

Q: What is the main objective of the study?

A: The main objective of the study is to formulate a strategy for preventing pesticide poisoning among horticultural farmers in Jorlang Hataran District, Simalungun Regency.

Q: What is the significance of the study?

A: The study is significant because it highlights the importance of attention to farmers' health and safety in the use of pesticides. It also emphasizes the need for cross-sectoral cooperation between the Health and Agriculture Services to develop an effective extension program.

Q: What are the factors related to the incidence of pesticide poisoning?

A: The study found several factors related to the incidence of pesticide poisoning, including bad nutritional status, inappropriate pesticide doses, lack of personal protective equipment (PPE), body cleanliness, and the condition of the sprayer used.

Q: What is the role of education in preventing pesticide poisoning?

A: The study found that the level of education of farmers does not indicate a significant relationship with pesticide poisoning. However, education can play a crucial role in raising awareness about the safe use of pesticides and the importance of PPE.

Q: What is the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) in preventing pesticide poisoning?

A: PPE is essential in preventing pesticide poisoning. The study found that farmers who did not use PPE were more likely to experience poisoning. Therefore, it is crucial to provide affordable and accessible PPE to farmers.

Q: What is the role of farmer group organizations in preventing pesticide poisoning?

A: Farmer group organizations can play a crucial role in preventing pesticide poisoning by providing counseling and support to farmers. They can also help to raise awareness about the safe use of pesticides and the importance of PPE.

Q: What is the importance of cross-sectoral cooperation in preventing pesticide poisoning?

A: Cross-sectoral cooperation between the Health and Agriculture Services is essential in preventing pesticide poisoning. It can help to develop an effective extension program that addresses the needs of farmers and promotes the safe use of pesticides.

Q: What are the limitations of the study?

A: The study has several limitations, including a small sample size, limited scope, and reliance on self-reported data.

Q: What are the future research directions?

A: Future research should aim to expand the sample size, increase the scope, and use more robust data collection methods to reduce bias and increase the validity of the findings.

Q: What are the implications of the study for policy and practice?

A: The study has several implications for policy and practice, including the need for cross-sectoral cooperation, increased farmer group organizations, and the procurement of affordable PPE. It also highlights the importance of attention to farmers' health and safety in the use of pesticides.

Q: What are the recommendations for farmers, policymakers, and extension workers?

A: The study recommends that farmers, policymakers, and extension workers work together to develop an effective extension program that addresses the needs of farmers and promotes the safe use of pesticides. It also recommends that farmers use PPE, follow recommended pesticide doses, and maintain good body cleanliness.

Q: What are the benefits of the study for farmers, policymakers, and extension workers?

A: The study benefits farmers, policymakers, and extension workers by providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors related to pesticide poisoning and the importance of attention to farmers' health and safety in the use of pesticides. It also highlights the need for cross-sectoral cooperation and the importance of PPE in preventing pesticide poisoning.