Neurobehavioral performance of Indonesian farmers and its association with pesticide exposure: A cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Acute and chronic pesticide exposure affect human health. The study aimed to assess the neurobehavioral performance its association with factors among Indonesian farmers. Methods A cross-sectional was conducted farmers living in Jember, Indonesia. Basic individual characteristics were documented using questionnaire-based interviews. assessed by German Q18 questionnaire WHO Neurobehavioral Core Test Battery (NCTB) consists of Digit Span, Symbol, Pursuit Aiming, Trail making instruments. Data presented descriptively analyzed statistically chi-square test. Results As many as 90 recruited. Most 45–55 years old had a normal nutritional status moderate smokers. 62.22% 37.78% abnormal. most common deficits short memory, concentration difficulties, excessive fatigue, frequent headache, tremor. test showed that spraying frequency (p = 0.006), duration (p = 0.002), working (p = 0.013), PPE usage (p = 0.022) associated performance, but types (p = 0.289) time (p = 0.627) did not performance. Conclusion Although some demonstrated an Multiple approaches including implementation regulation, choosing alternative biopesticides, regular counseling on all aspects pesticides, their impact health are recommended minimize pesticides' negative effects.