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The STUDIA UNIVERSITATIS BABEŞ-BOLYAI issue article summary
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Abstract: Extensive use of pesticides in agriculture is the most important exposure route for the rural population. Lately, specialists and public concern has increased considerably regarding the impact of pesticides on human health, as a number of studies highlighted the potential effects represented mainly by chronic diseases. Application of pesticides in agricultural practices represents a high risk that pollutants are carried away by the wind over long distances from the target areas and determine harmful effects upon populations outside the areas of application of chemicals.This study was performed in a rural area of Cluj County, in Sâncraiu locality, Romania, on the purpose to describe the circumstances regarding the application of pesticides. Population of Sâncraiu locality works mainly in agriculture and livestock, it is accessible in terms of culture and economics, it is stable without high rates of migration and industries present in the area are not important for the exposure to pesticides assessment. A sample of 100 inhabitants was randomly selected from the general population and invited to participate in a questionnaire-based survey. The questionnaire consists of a series of open and closed questions concerning: demographic data, lifestyle, personal pathological history, background information regarding activities within the household/farm. A percentage of 61 reported that they are the owners of the household they live and work in. It is worthy of note that, given the specific area and age of respondents, most of them (46%) declared that they worked in that farm for more than 30 years. At a rate of 75%, the respondents answered YES on the question whether they prepared or personally applied pesticides during their life. Despite progress registered in the environmental domain, research concerning the effects of environmental pollutants upon human health are insufficient at the moment, not only in Romania but throughout the world. In order to achieve these goals, a very well organized system is required. Emphasis should be set on the relationship between population exposure to environmental pollutants and human health. From the presented data it results that the investigated population has a prior as well as a present exposure to pesticides that if not controlled may be associated to some health effects. Next steps of the study will focus on highlighting the potential health effects, as well as the protection measures which should be implemented.
Key words: pesticides, Romania, Sâncraiu |
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