HEALTH COST OF PESTICIDE USE ON RICE CULTIVATION IN THE SOUTH-WEST REGION OF BANGLADESH

Abstract

The study concentrates on assessing health hazards caused by pesticide spray in rice cultivation in the South-west region of Bangladesh. The data particularized that the probability of facing discomfort due to pesticide exposure is 79 percent. The cost-of-illness (Mitigation cost and income loss due to sickness) and avertive action are considered to estimate pesticide use costs. For health cost estimation, a household survey on rice fanners was conducted. The data were collected through an interview method by using a well-structured questionnaire. Logit, Probit, Poission regression, and Negative binomial regression models have been applied in this study. The predicted probability of falling sick from pesticide-related symptoms is significantly higher among individuals who apply pesticides with high chemical concentrations. For both the logit and probit models, it is statistically significant at a 5 percent significance level. On the other hand, an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) application, first aid knowledge, avertive action, treatment facilities, and knowledge level help reduce the probability of diseases caused by pesticide exposure. Finally, the study finds BDT 5273 per person per season as the health cost for pesticide application-oriented health hazard.