Banana Farmers in the Littoral Region at Risk of Brain, Kidney and Liver Dysfunction – Study Reveals

Photo by Rodrigo dos Reis on Unsplash 

The vast majority of commercial and export bananas are grown in the Littoral and Southwest regions of Cameroon. Its cultivation is usually on large, dense monocultures, preferably in areas of high humidity. This predisposes the plantation to pests and diseases, and year-long pesticide use is inevitable.

Pesticide use comes with severe health risks when handled improperly. In a study published in Scientific Reports, a team of researchers at the Universities of Yaounde and Douala found that banana farmers are at risk of multi-organ damage. The study focused on distributors and retailers of pesticides and banana farmers in Moungo Division. The pesticides comprise herbicides, insecticides and compounds containing paraquat, glyphosate, organophosphates, tripronil and mancozeb. The farmers complain of respiratory problems, skin and eye irritation, and other symptoms indicating acute poisoning. Further blood analysis revealed residues of multiple pesticides and elevated levels of inflammatory markers that increase organ damage, particularly to the brain and liver.

Although useful, their use on banana farms is slowly endangering the lives of farmers. Over the years, there has been a growing body of evidence showing the adverse effects of agricultural-grade chemicals on health. In several studies, chronic pesticide exposure has been reported to lead to serious health issues like cancer and neurological damage. This public health challenge is currently understudied and overlooked, and swift action is required. Farmers' education on agricultural chemical handling needs to be reinforced. This includes the use of PPE, reading labels, safe mixing, and avoiding environmental drift by not spraying on windy days. When possible, farmers should consider non-chemical pest control alternatives. This issue also calls for policy actions. There should be enforcement of regulations on herbicide use and safe agricultural practices. Public and private sector investments in non-chemical alternatives, farmers' education, and improved access to protective gear should also be prioritised.

The protection of farmers in general goes beyond occupational safety; it is a step towards building a more resilient and sustainable food system.