Pesticide Take-Home Pathways, Storage, and Application Methods Among Hmong Farmers in Central Valley, California.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Pesticide exposure via take-home pathways is a major health concern among farmers. However, little is known about the effects of pesticide take-home pathways on small-scale Hmong farmers in the Central Valley. This study explored factors that contribute to pesticide exposure via the take-home pathway among small-scale Hmong farmers in the Central Valley. METHODS: Detailed ethnographic observations of small-scale farms and corresponding homes were coupled with in-depth qualitative interviews with Hmong farmers to assess the extent of the pesticide take-home pathway. RESULTS: The study found daily challenges and numerous ways that pesticide particles may be introduced into farmers' homes. Given the paucity of research about Hmong farmers' pesticide take-home pathways, the study's findings advance the scholarship on pesticide exposures in the Hmong farmer community. CONCLUSION: This study advocates for more culturally and linguistically appropriate pesticide exposure training and educational programs tailored to Hmong farmers in the United States.