Complete blood count, cholinesterase, and renal function of organophosphate sprayers in Kulonprogo

Abstract

Background: There are several risks to health associated with pesticide use. The use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) can minimize pesticide exposure to farmers. The aim of this study was to determine the basic characteristics of farmers, blood parameters (complete blood count, cholinesterase, and creatinine), patterns of pesticide use, and the use of PPE. Methods: This research was a cross-sectional study, with total sampling method. The data were taken from all farmers in Kulonprogo, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Case group was organophosphate sprayers that have sprayed organophosphate for more than 1 year. Results: In case of group, there were 36 farmers (31 male and 5 female), while in control group, there were 11 persons (4 male and 7 female). The mean blood cholinesterase level in the exposed group was 7.8 ± 2.01Ku/L and in the control group 8.7± 1.56 Ku/L. The mean of exposed group blood urea nitrogen: 12.08±3.88 mmol/L and control Group: 11.4±3.11 mmol/L. The mean of blood creatinine was within normal limits (case group: 0.9 ± 0.17mg/dl and control group: 0.7 ± 0.19 mg/dl), but there were significant differences between them (p : 0.015). Conclusions: The results of a complete blood count, cholinesterase, and renal function in the organophosphate sprayers In Kulonprogro were within normal limits. There was an increase of creatinine levels on exposed group significantly, although still within normal limit. They have sufficient rest period for farmers (1 month) in every planting season. It is necessary to educate farmers about the importance of using PPE and management of acute pesticide poisoning.