Educational initiative with primary school children to increase their perception of pesticide risk

Abstract

Objective: Exposure to pesticides is a significant health risk factor for occupationally exposed populations, their families, and those residing in areas near agricultural fields. The objective of this educational initiative was to increase the knowledge and risk perception of schoolchildren at a primary school located in a town dedicated to the cultivation of flowers and ornamental plants, in order to encourage the adoption of environmental hygiene habits that reduce pesticide exposure.

Materials and methods: Between April and June 2024, an educational initiative consisting of 5 sessions was conducted, based on elements of popular education, child-to-child methodology, and meaningful learning. 53 fifth- and sixth-grade primary school students participated. Mixed methods (knowledge questionnaire and focus groups) were used to explore the students' knowledge, risk perception, and hygiene practices before (pre) and after (post) the intervention.

Results: After the intervention, a significant increase in knowledge about pesticide uses (56.13%_pre vs 96.23%_post, p <0.01), exposure routes (dermal: 30.19%_pre vs 69.81%_post, p <0.005; inhalation 54.72%_pre vs 73.58%_post, p <0.005), perception of health risks (54.72%_pre vs 92.45%_post, p <0.001) and identification of storage places (50.94%_pre vs 75.47%_post, p 0.007). The didactic methodologies used encouraged the participation, motivation and interest of the students in the topics reviewed.

Conclusions: Meaningful learning strategies increase risk perception and promote practices that reduce pesticide exposure. However, periodic interventions are required to achieve sustainable changes in the medium and long term.

Keywords: Pesticides; Health risks; Schoolchildren.