Adverse effect of aerosol pesticide on lung dysfunction among paddy farmers in Purworejo, Central Java, Indonesia

Abstract

The World Health Organization estimated that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) will be the highest non-communicable disease worldwide by 2030, and pesticide exposure is one of major risk factors. This study aimed to determine effect of pesticide exposure on lung dysfunction among paddy farmers. A case-control study was performed on April - May 2016 in Purworejo. The case group comprised 66 farmers suffering from lung dysfunction during 2015 based on medical records, while the control group comprised 59 neighboring farmers showing normal lung function. Both case and control groups were tested using a spirometer and COPD assessment test (CAT) questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis of pesticide quantity (OR = 0.75; 95% CI = 0.317 - 1.754) and duration of spraying (OR = 1.11; 95% CI = 0.430 - 2.891) adjusted for confounders showed no clear associations. Pesticide remained a potential health risk for lung dysfunction due to farming duration (OR = 5.61; 95% CI = 1.124 - 27.990) adjusted by age, personal protective equipment, records of lung disease, smoking habit, dust exposure, and indoor air pollution. The farming duration was revealed to be a risk factor, but no clear association was found between quantity and duration of spraying to lung dysfunction.