Assessment of pesticide exposure levels among populations living near agricultural areas: systematic review

Mame Diarra CASSE¹, Awa NDONG^2*, Fatoumata BAH¹, Robert FAOMOWE FOKO¹, Mamadou lamine DAFFE¹, Absa LAM¹, Cheikh DIOP¹, Aminata TOURE¹, Mathilde CABRAL¹, Mamadou FALL¹

1: Laboratory of Toxicology and Hydrology, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dentistery, Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal, BP: 5005, Dakar-Fann, Senegal

2: UMRED, Health Training and Research Unit, University of Iba Der Thiam of Thies, BP 967, Thies, Senegal

* Correspondance: awandong@univ-thies.sn 

DOI:  10.61585/pud-IJPPNA-v3i303

Abstract: The intensive use of pesticides in agriculture exposes nearby populations to health risks, mainly through spray drift and volatilization. This systematic review aims to synthesize recent knowledge

(2014-2024) on pesticide exposure among people living near agricultural areas.

A search according to PRISMA and Cochrane protocols was conducted in PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. Of the 6,194 articles identified, 20 original studies met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted on biomarkers (urine, blood, hair), environmental matrices (silicone bracelets, dust), and exposure determinants.

The studies selected consistently show higher exposure among residents living close to crops, particularly during spraying periods. Children and populations living in areas of intensive agriculture (e.g., rice farming) have the highest levels of contamination. Metabolites of organophosphates (DAP, TCPy) and pyrethroids (3-PBA) are frequently detected, with concentrations often exceeding reference values (NHANES, HBM). Age, gender, and behavior also influence exposure levels.

Residential proximity to agricultural areas is a major determinant of pesticide exposure. An integrated approach combining biomonitoring and environmental sampling is recommended to better characterize exposure. Concrete actions are needed to protect vulnerable populations, strengthen regulations, and promote the transition to agricultural models that are less dependent on pesticides.

Keywords: pesticide metabolites, biomonitoring, influencing factors, residential proximity

CASSE et al. 2025-Assessment of pesticide exposure levels.pdf

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Graphical abstract Casse et al-IJPPNA Vol.03, N°03 (2025)