SAÚDE DO TRABALHADOR RURAL: IMPACTOS DE ENFRENTAMENTO RELACIONADOS AO USO DE AGROTÓXICOS

Abstract

The use of pesticides in modern agriculture increases productivity but exposes rural workers to significant risks, such as poisoning, musculoskeletal disorders, and respiratory diseases. These conditions affect health, quality of life, and productive capacity, requiring preventive measures and effective management strategies. This literature review presents an analysis of the impacts of pesticides used in agriculture, considering their effects on human health. The health of rural workers can be protected with the appropriate use of PPE, a balanced diet, leisure activities, physical exercise, adequate working conditions, and social interaction. Strategic actions to promote health and prevent diseases are essential, especially to train rural populations on the correct use of pesticides and the risks of inappropriate exposure. The intensive and inappropriate use of pesticides is a public health problem, but agroecological family farming emerges as a sustainable alternative, integrating traditional and modern knowledge to preserve health and the environment.