Factors Associated with Blood Cholinesterase Enzyme Level of Agricultural Workers in Ko-Chan Sub-district, Ko-Chan District, Chonburi Province

Abstract

The objective of this study was to describe factors associated with blood cholinesterase enzyme (ChE) level among agricultural workers in Ko-Chan Sub-district, Ko- Chan District, Chonburi Province. A total of 310 farmers aged more than 20 year were interviewed. A reactive paper finger-blood test was used to assess ChE levels. Data analyses were descriptive statistics and Chi-square at 95% confidence interval. The results of blood ChE indicated that 79.7% of agricultural workers were at risk and unsafe level. More than half (65.5%) of agricultural workers had moderate pesticide-use knowledge. Almost all of agricultural workers (85.8%) had good pesticide use behaviors. Factors including age, agricultural experience, family income and area of plantation were found to be significantly associated with blood ChE level. Continuing monitoring for blood ChE, especially for a lower ChE level agricultural workers, conducting pesticide use safety program, promoting the organic agricultural and alternative use of bio-pesticides to reduce pesticides use are recommended.