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Males in developing countries are better educated and have easier access to information than females. This might be due to cultural factors and a more traditional family structure where the males are head of the households. Females constitute a vital part of the agricultural workforce, where on an average 43% of the food production is operated by women, indicating a need of focusing on women in farmer’s education and research, which has been lacking so far.
Methods
An interview was conducted among 298 females and 137 males in Bolivia from 2008 to 2009. Data were analyzed in STATA 10.0 for the influence of gender on knowledge, attitude, practice and the experience of symptoms of intoxication when handling pesticides. In the analyses data were controlled for relevant confounders.
Results
All farm workers used highly toxic pesticides (34% WHO class Ia and b, 57% class II). Women had a lower school education and had less knowledge on pesticide toxicity. They used fewer personal protective devices and took less hygienic precautions when handling pesticides. Symptoms of intoxication where reported more frequently among female pesticide users than among males. Education seems to be an independent risk factor.
Discussion
Female farm workers take fewer precautions and reports more frequent symptoms of intoxication when handling pesticides than males. This might be explained by a lower educational level and less knowledge of toxicity and a proper handling.
The educational level female farm workers must be improved and they have to be encouraged to participate in farmers courses. State institutions and NGO’s providing education for farmers, have to be aware of this gender problematic and take measures to make it possible for female farmers to participate. This could be alphabetization campaigns, courses celebrated in villages, shorter but more frequent courses, and the promotion of a gender ratio of one to one.