The Importance of Pesticide Use Awareness

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 91 views

Behavior of the Use of Pesticides and Complaints of Chili Farmers' Health in Pakkat Village, Doloksanggul District, Humbang Hasundutan Regency (2019)

Introduction

Pakkat Village, located in Doloksanggul District, Humbang Hasundutan Regency, is a region where chili farmers face significant challenges related to the use of hazardous pesticides. Despite the presence of toxic chemicals in these substances, many farmers are unaware of the potential health risks associated with their use. This lack of awareness often leads to incorrect application methods, which can have severe consequences for the farmers themselves and the surrounding environment.

The Importance of Pesticide Use Awareness

The use of pesticides is a common practice in agriculture, but it is crucial to use these substances responsibly. Pesticides contain toxic chemicals that can have a negative impact on human health if not used correctly. In the case of chili farmers in Pakkat Village, the use of organophosphate pesticides is widespread, with 52.2% of farmers relying on these substances. However, the frequency of spraying and the recommended dosage are often ignored, leading to a higher risk of health problems.

Methodology

This study employed a descriptive research approach to explore the behavior of chili farmers in using pesticides and the health effects they experience. A sample of 220 farmers was selected, with 69 respondents participating in the study. Data collection was carried out through interviews and questionnaires, which were then analyzed descriptively. The results were presented in the form of frequency distribution tables.

Results

The study found that the majority of farmers (52.2%) used organophosphate pesticides, with a frequency of spraying three times a week. Notably, all respondents sprayed pesticides in the morning, which may contribute to the high incidence of health complaints. Furthermore, 100% of farmers failed to follow the recommended dosage, which is a critical factor in reducing the risk of health problems.

In terms of knowledge, attitudes, and behavior, the study revealed that 58% of farmers had moderate knowledge about pesticide use, while their attitudes were categorized as well (58%). However, 60.9% of farmers showed bad behavior in interacting with pesticides, which is a concerning finding.

Health Complaints

The study also investigated the health complaints experienced by the farmers. The results showed that all farmers who participated in the study reported various health problems. The most common complaints were:

Dizziness (87%)
Headaches (69.6%)
Limp body (85.5%)
Nausea (30.4%)
Vomiting (15.9%)
Diarrhea (17.4%)
Nervous (15.9%)
Tremor (43.5%)
Blurred vision (47.8%)
Excessive sweating (31.9%)
Fast heartbeat (29%)
Difficulty breathing (13%)

Conclusion

The study's findings suggest that the regular use of organophosphate pesticides by farmers without regard to the recommended dosage has the potential to cause various health complaints. This highlights a lack of adequate understanding of how to use pesticides safely and effectively. Therefore, it is essential to increase awareness of the dangers of pesticides and provide information needed to apply agricultural practices that are safer and healthier for farmers and the wider community.

Recommendations

Based on the study's findings, the following recommendations are made:

The local Health Office should increase the extension campaign for farmers, especially through public health centers in Humbang Hasundutan.
Farmers should increase their knowledge and change their attitudes and behavior in the use of pesticides.
A better approach to pesticide use is necessary to reduce health risks and achieve more sustainable agricultural products.

Implications

The study's findings have significant implications for the health and well-being of chili farmers in Pakkat Village. The use of hazardous pesticides can have severe consequences for farmers' health, and it is essential to address this issue through education and awareness campaigns. By increasing knowledge and changing attitudes and behavior, farmers can reduce their risk of health problems and contribute to a more sustainable agricultural system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Behavior of the Use of Pesticides and Complaints of Chili Farmers' Health in Pakkat Village, Doloksanggul District, Humbang Hasundutan Regency (2019)

Q: What is the main objective of the study?

A: The main objective of the study is to explore the behavior of chili farmers in using pesticides and the health effects they experience in Pakkat Village, Doloksanggul District, Humbang Hasundutan Regency.

Q: What is the significance of the study?

A: The study is significant because it highlights the importance of pesticide use awareness among farmers, particularly in the context of chili farming in Pakkat Village. The study's findings can inform policy and practice to reduce the risk of health problems associated with pesticide use.

Q: What are the common health complaints experienced by farmers?

A: The study found that the most common health complaints experienced by farmers include dizziness, headaches, limp body, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, nervous, tremor, blurred vision, excessive sweating, fast heartbeat, and difficulty breathing.

Q: What is the frequency of spraying pesticides among farmers?

A: The study found that the frequency of spraying pesticides among farmers is three times a week.

Q: Do farmers follow the recommended dosage when using pesticides?

A: No, the study found that 100% of farmers do not follow the recommended dosage when using pesticides.

Q: What is the level of knowledge among farmers about pesticide use?

A: The study found that 58% of farmers have moderate knowledge about pesticide use.

Q: What is the attitude of farmers towards pesticide use?

A: The study found that 58% of farmers have a well attitude towards pesticide use.

Q: What is the behavior of farmers when interacting with pesticides?

A: The study found that 60.9% of farmers show bad behavior when interacting with pesticides.

Q: What are the recommendations of the study?

A: The study recommends that the local Health Office increase the extension campaign for farmers, especially through public health centers in Humbang Hasundutan. Farmers should also increase their knowledge and change their attitudes and behavior in the use of pesticides.

Q: What are the implications of the study?

A: The study's findings have significant implications for the health and well-being of chili farmers in Pakkat Village. The use of hazardous pesticides can have severe consequences for farmers' health, and it is essential to address this issue through education and awareness campaigns.

Q: What can be done to reduce the risk of health problems associated with pesticide use?

A: To reduce the risk of health problems associated with pesticide use, farmers should increase their knowledge and change their attitudes and behavior in the use of pesticides. This can be achieved through education and awareness campaigns, as well as the provision of information and resources to support safe and effective pesticide use.

Q: What role can the local Health Office play in reducing the risk of health problems associated with pesticide use?

A: The local Health Office can play a critical role in reducing the risk of health problems associated with pesticide use by increasing the extension campaign for farmers, especially through public health centers in Humbang Hasundutan. This can include providing education and awareness programs, as well as resources and support to help farmers use pesticides safely and effectively.