The farmers’ daily activities are exposed to many risks. The use of pesticides is one of the most relevant occupation hazards for farmers in developing nations. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of educational health program on self-protective measures for farmers using pesticides at Kalyobia Governorate. Design: A quasi experimental design was used. Settings: This study was conducted at Agriculture Unit, farmland and home of farmers in El-Safina Village and El-Hesa Village, Tokh district ,Kalyobia Governorate. The sample: Is composed of 200 male farmers. The study started in May 2010 to the end of December 2010. Two tools were designed to collect data: I-Questionnaire sheet to collect data about demographic characteristics of the farmers and their knowledge related to pesticides use, and II-Observation checklist to assess farmers’ practices and self reported health complaints related to pesticide exposure and a health educational intervention program. Results: The studied findings showed that farmers’ knowledge improved post program implementation from 86% unsatisfactory knowledge score preprogram to 93% satisfactory level of knowledge score in post I and slight decline in post II (88%). Statistically significant relations were detected between farmers’ years of work (more than 10 years) and their knowledge post program, also a statistically significant relation was present between farmers’ age and their practices post program implementation. The study concluded that the education health program improved farmers’ knowledge and practices bout self-protective measures during using pesticides. Recommendations: The health educational program should be conducted in Agricultural Units about pesticide process and personal protective equipment. A booklet containing information in simple language with illustrated pictures about pesticides and their health hazards should be given to all farmers and instructing them about the importance of medical follow up at rural health units.
Keywords: Pesticides, Educational Health Program, Farmers
|
