Assessment on Possible Adverse Pesticides Effect on Human Health in Lucknow District, Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

The extensive use of chemical pesticides in agriculture has significantly increased crop productivity; however, their indiscriminate application poses serious risks to human health and the environment. The present study assessed the adverse health effects of pesticide exposure among farmers in Lucknow district, Uttar Pradesh. A multistage stratified purposive-cum-random sampling technique was employed during 2020–21 and 2021–22. Two agricultural blocks, Mall and Malihabad, were selected purposively, followed by the random selection of ten villages and 100 pesticide using farmers. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire and personal interviews, while secondary information was obtained from published literature and official sources. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS (Version 21) and descriptive statistical tools. The findings revealed that a large majority of farmers were aware of the health hazards associated with pesticide exposure, yet nearly half reported experiencing discomfort or illness after pesticide application. Commonly reported symptoms included headache, dizziness, skin rashes, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision. Most respondents recognized the harmful effects of pesticides on human health and the environment, although misconceptions regarding pesticide toxicity and safe handling practices persisted. The study also found increasing pesticide consumption over the study period and limited awareness regarding long-term environmental contamination and alternative pest management practices. The results emphasize the urgent need for farmer education, promotion of safe pesticide handling, adoption of integrated pest management practices, and strengthening of awareness programs to minimize pesticide-related health risks and environmental pollution.