Gender Differences in Knowledge, Attitude and Practices Regarding the Pesticide Use Among Farm Workers: A Questionnaire Based Study

The extensive use of pesticides in agriculture sector possess a serious environmental degradation problem besides being associated with public and workers health hazards. It is important to understand gender difference in knowledge, attitude and practices regarding the pesticide use for identifying pesticide risks by gender and to recommend more gender-sensitive programs. However, very few studies have been conducted so far. This study, thus interviewed a total of 200 males and 120 females to assess gender differences on pesticide use knowledge, attitude and practices. Information was obtained through structured questionnaire coupled with personal interviews. The study revealed that more than 50% females had never been to school and only < 8% individuals were found trained in Integrated Pest Management. Almost all males and females did not drink and eat during pesticides application and also believed that pesticides are harmful to human health. However, there were gender differences regarding care of wind direction during spraying, prior knowledge on safety measures, reading and understanding of pesticides labels, awareness of the labels and protective covers. Almost all respondents were aware of negative impacts of pesticide use on human health and environment irrespective of gender; however, females were at higher risk due to lower level of pesticide use safety and awareness. It is strongly recommended to initiate gender-sensitive educational and awareness activities, especially on pesticide use practices and safety precautions.