Autopercepção de risco e de saúde de trabalhadores rurais integrantes da agricultura familiar

Abstract

The agrochemical industry in Brazil provides a strong incentive for agricultural production, whether large- or small-scale. Traditionally, in the rural production chain, agrochemicals are used to combat and prevent pests and diseases, encouraging and strengthening production, especially on a large scale. Although frequently used on crops, agrochemicals can cause harm to human health, both through direct and indirect contamination of produce. This qualitative case study aimed to analyze rural workers' self-perceptions about agrochemical use and health risks. The survey was conducted in May 2024 and November 2024. Sociodemographic, general knowledge, and health perception questionnaires were administered to a sample of fifty rural producers. Of the producers interviewed, forty-five were men and five were women, with the most common level of education being complete elementary school. Regarding their work patterns, one reported working as a day laborer, eleven were self-employed, and thirty-eight were sharecroppers. It was observed that most participants reported health problems, particularly poisoning, and low levels of knowledge and attitudes regarding pesticide use practices, especially regarding handling and disposal. This study, within its limitations, allowed us to analyze the adverse conditions under which rural producers work in their daily lives, in relation to pesticide use and health risks. Furthermore, it can contribute to measures to prevent health problems related to pesticide application, through information on the current conditions of direct and indirect exposure to pesticides to which workers are exposed in the environment, as well as health promotion actions and the need to expand the level of knowledge about the practice in question.