Saúde e ambiente: uma abordagem sobre as condições da horticultura praticada no município de Lagoa Seca - PB.

Abstract

Farmers have in agriculture the main economic activity in the region, with emphasis on horticulture. This type of activity plays important social role because it absorbs part of the labor-place. The management of agriculture in the region leaves the soil completely exhausted, so it is necessary the intensive use of fertilizers and pesticides, allowing farmers susceptible to contamination and disease. Considering this reality, from March 2006 to March 2008, an epidemiological and clinical study, and environmental characterization was carried out in 21 properties in the Alvinho, Lagoa de Gravatá, Gruta Funda and Oiti communities, located in Lagoa Seca city, Paraiba State. Accordingly, it was realized a diagnosis of the study area with the objective to carry out a survey about the conditions and degree of contamination of natural resources (soil and water. The data show the negative effects of agricultural activity in the region's natural systems, presenting fully depleted soil and water quality compromised. It is believed that this was caused by the indiscriminate use of fertilizers and pesticides. According to the results presented it can be concluded that the inadequate management in the use of pesticides, lack of personal protection equipment and exposure to toxic products cause adverse effects on rural workers. This confirms that over 50% of rural workers surveyed show up intoxicated. It is understood that a search of this nature provides the basis both to warn the population about this problem and for the governmental and nongovernmental sectors to take note of real data and assume the responsibilities that they are responsible.