[Risk perception, attitudes and practices on pesticide use among farmers of a city in Midwestern Brazil].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate risk perception, practices and attitudes on pesticide use in a rural population.


METHODS
Qualitative study conducted in Midwestern Brazil in February 2005. Seven focal groups (N=40), comprising five to seven individuals each, discussed pesticide-related issues and included the presentation of a product container to support the discussion on labels. The discussions were tape recorded, transcribed and analyzed following the method for discourse analysis.


RESULTS
The farmers studied were aware of the risks resulting from direct and indirect exposure to pesticides and many were concerned about potential environmental contamination. Interviewee's information on pesticides was limited to product dosage and was mostly conveyed by product retailers. They complained about the small print and technical language used in product labels but many were able to understand the pictograms and color toxicity codes.


CONCLUSIONS
The farmers studied not always converted their risk perception and personal experiences into safer practices for pesticide use such as use of personal protective devices. They feel hopeless to face risky situations, mainly because of unmanageable environmental factors and their vulnerable financial condition. This community needs to be involved in targeted governmental extension programs that stress alternative pest managements and safe use of pesticides.
Recena
Maria Celina Piazza
MC
Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil. mcrecena@nin.ufms.br
Caldas
Eloisa Dutra
ED
D000328:Adult; D000383:Agriculture / Q000379:methods*; D001938:Brazil; D017144:Focus Groups; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016273:Occupational Exposure; D010465:Perception; D010575:Pesticides / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011481:Protective Clothing / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012309:Risk-Taking; D012424:Rural Population; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D010575:Pesticides