Abstract: Misuse of pesticides by farmers has been an issue of concern all over the world and especially in
Nigeria. Misuse of pesticides poses threats to the health of farmers, the end consumers and the
environment. The need for effective pest control and increased crop yield has increased use of
pesticides by farmers. The purpose of this study is to assess the level of perception of farmers on
the health hazard of pesticide use and misuse. The result showed that preventive measures by
farmers, including wearing of protective gears while applying pesticides to farmland was
common place. It was also found that pesticide disposal practice was poor among farmers,
however, farmers practice hand washing, change of clothes and showering after application.
Health risk perception was found to be moderate and it was suggested that the reason for the lack
of preventive practices and use of protective gear was as a result of low perceived seriousness of
the health hazard posed by pesticides. It is hence recommended that farmers should be trained on
health hazard of pesticide use and supply of protective gears should be made available at
subsidized rate.
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