Alterations in Renal Functions of Market Gardeners Occupationally Exposed to Pesticides in West Cameroon

Despite the tremendous advantages of pesticides in sustainable agriculture, their excessive misuse causes environmental and health hazards.

Objective: Assessment of the effects of pesticides on renal functions of market gardeners in the western highlands of Cameroon.

Design and Methods: A total of 124 male market gardeners in Foumbot, Massangam and Bantoum were questioned on their health status, attitudes and behaviour with respect to agricultural practices. Thereafter, their blood samples were collected for assessment of renal function biomarkers including serum urea and creatinine. Urine samples were also analysed using 11-parameter urinalysis test strips. Sixty men with no history of pesticide exposure were recruited as control group.

Results: Fifty six pesticides containing 25 active ingredients were currently used by market gardeners enrolled in our study, and most of their symptoms (headache, fatigue, skin rashes, eye irritation and nausea) were related to spread/use of these chemicals. Compared to the control subjects market gardeners’ urea and creatinine serum levels were significantly increased (11.4 ± 1.59 mgdL-1 vs. 12.61 ± 1.94 mgdL-1; P< 0.05) and (12.5 ± 3.0 mgdL-1; vs. 29.41 ± 12.98 mgdL-1 P < 0.001), respectively. Though some positive cases were identified, no significant difference was recorded in urine nitrites, ketones and protein levels.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that market gardeners in West Cameroon are exposed to pesticides, and that this exposure could impair their renal functions. Despite the infancy of biomonitoring of effects of pesticides in Cameroon, a crucial need arises to increase awareness of market gardeners on the adverse effects of pesticides on kidney functions and increase government subventions on Personal Protective Equipments.