Influence of pesticide exposure on farmers’ cognition: A systematic review
Suelen Finhler, Gabriela Putton Marchesan, Cristian Ferreira Corona, Andressa Talita Nunes, Karen Cristine Silva de Oliveira, Amanda Tapia de Moraes, Letiére Cabreira Soares, Fernanda Oliveira Lima, Camila Dalmolin, Dalila Moter Benvegnú
Abstract
Objectives: Pesticide application has become necessary to increase crop productivity and reduce losses. However, the use of these products can produce toxic effects. Farmers are individuals occupationally exposed to pesticides, thus subject to associated diseases as well as cognitive impairment. However, this relation is not well established in the literature, requiring further investigation. To assess the potential association between farmers' pesticide exposure and cognitive impairment, we followed the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, considering participants, interventions, comparators, outcomes, and study strategies. Materials and Methods: ." Results: In total, ten studies fit the established criteria and were included in the sample. All had farmers occupationally exposed to pesticides in their sample and only one study dispensed with a control group. Of the neurobehavioral tests, four studies used mini-mental state examination, six neurobehavioral core test batteries (tests recognized in the area), and the remaining, other tests. We observed that 90% of articles found an association between cognitive impairment and pesticide exposure. Overall, five studies measured the activity of cholinesterases in their sample, of which three found significant differences between groups, confirming intoxication in those exposed. Conclusion: Despite the limited number of trials, we found scientific evidence to support the existence of adverse effects of pesticides on farmers' cognition. We recommend that future studies research similar projects, expanding knowledge on the subject.