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The relationship between intensification in the use of pesticides and intoxications in Brazil's agricultural establishments

Abstract:

This study verifies the relationship between the intensity of the use of pesticides and the number of intoxications in agricultural establishments in Brazil. Based on data from the 2006 Agricultural Census, the Generalized Propensity Score (GPS) was used to make municipalities with different intensities in the use of pesticides comparable. The results show that the proportion of establishments with intoxicated people increases as the use of pesticides intensifies, showing a negative and statistically significant effect of pesticides on health. In this context, ATER services, by helping farmers concerning the proper use and handling of pesticides and the adoption of sustainable alternatives for pest management, become essential to mitigate the health risks associated with the use of pesticides. Along with the expansion of ATER services, the importance of developing more efficient products that are less harmful to health and the environment is highlighted.

Keywords:
pesticides; health; agricultural establishments

Sociedade Brasileira de Economia e Sociologia Rural Av. W/3 Norte, Quadra 702 Ed. Brasília Rádio Center Salas 1049-1050, 70719 900 Brasília DF Brasil, - Brasília - DF - Brazil
E-mail: sober@sober.org.br