J Agric Med Community Health.
2024 Dec;49(4):322-339. 10.5393/JAMCH.2024.49.4.322.
Occupational Hazardous Factors and Health Impacts among Agricultural Workers: a Mechanism-Based Review
- Affiliations
-
- 1Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University
- 2Institute of Medical Sciences, Gyeongsang National University
- 3Center for Fishermen's Safety and Health, Gyeongsang National University Hospital
- 4Environmental Health Center for Gyeongsangnam-do
- 5Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University
- 6Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Changwon Hospital
- 7Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Chosun University Hospital
- 8Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Dongguk University
- 9Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital
- 10Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Gumi Hospital
- 11Agricultural Safety and Health Division, Department of Agricultural Engineering, National Institute of Agricultural Science, Rural Development Administration
- KMID: 2570785
- DOI: http://doi.org/10.5393/JAMCH.2024.49.4.322
Abstract
Objectives
This study aims to systematically review the health impacts and mechanisms of exposure to hazardous factors among agricultural workers to contribute to the development of strategies for health protection and preventive management for agricultural workers.
Methods
We analyzed chemical, physical, musculoskeletal, biological, and psychosocial hazards, focusing on their associated health impacts and mechanisms based on previous literature.
Results
Chemical hazards, such as pesticides and fertilizers, can cause chronic diseases, poisoning, and respiratory issues. Physical hazards, including noise, vibration, and sunlight exposure, may result in hearing loss, musculoskeletal strain, and skin disorders. Musculoskeletal hazards from repetitive movements and lifting heavy load, and awkward posture can lead to back pain, osteoarthritis, and tendon disorders. Biological hazards, such as bioaerosols and zoonotic pathogens, increase the risk of respiratory diseases and infectious conditions. Psychosocial hazards, including financial stress, social isolation, and extreme weather, contribute to mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and cardiovascular diseases. In agricultural environments with a high proportion of older workers with pre-existing conditions, these risks are further elevated.
Conclusions
Understanding the mechanisms of health risks will enhance awareness of the importance of wearing protective equipment and following safety protocols, promoting behavioral changes and improving occupational health in agriculture.
- Full Text Links
-
- Actions
-
Cited
- CITED
-
- Close
- Share
-
- Similar articles
-
- Work-related diseases of agricultural workers in South Korea
- Biologically Hazardous Agents at Work and Efforts to Protect Workers' Health: A Review of Recent Reports
- Occupational Safety and Health Act for the Protection of Workers’ Mental Health
- A study on the knowledge and attitude of workers at health hazardous workplace in occupational health
- Toxicological Evaluations of Rare Earths and Their Health Impacts to Workers: A Literature Review
