Perception of family farmers regarding the use of pesticides in the microregion of jales, São Paulo

Abstract: Rural workers are the main victims of pesticide poisoning, and these substances have been triggering the development of various diseases. Many regions are based on family farming, where producers are often unaware of the risks of inappropriate use of these products. Objective: This study was developed to evaluate the perception of family farmers about the use of pesticides and the destination of their packaging. Methods: An interview was conducted in which a questionnaire was applied to 50 family farmers in the microregion of Jales - São Paulo, Brazil, who carry out agricultural activities. The obtained data were tabulated and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Among the interviewees, 92% were male, with an average age of 55 years, 41.7% had primary education, 91.7% were married, 66.6% live exclusively on income from agriculture, and only 33.4% receive specialized technical assistance. The produced crops mentioned were lime, pumpkin, grape, papaya and cassava. Regarding the groups of pesticides most used, 91.7% of the farms used fungicides, 83.4% herbicides and insecticides, and 25% nematicides. As for receiving guidelines on the use, care and disposal of packaging, 25% of producers reported not receiving information and 41.8% claimed to use a larger dose than recommended. Most producers (91.7%) declared they know that pesticides have a withdrawal period, but only 65% respect it. Most producers have shown to understand that the use of PPE is important in both handling and in applying pesticides; however, most do not use, or use it only sometimes and partially. Conclusions: The present study allowed us to conclude that family farmers in the microregion of Jales, São Paulo, make erroneous use of pesticides, without qualified technical assistance, which puts human, animal and environmental health at risk. Therefore, educational actions must be carried out with field workers with a focus on demonstrating the importance of the proper handling and application of these substances.