Retno Wahyuningsih, Lalu Khainul Abdi, Reni Sofiyatin, Joyeti Darni, Lalu Juntra Utama
Objective : the contemporary agricultural context, pesticides have been identified as a pivotal element, playing a critical role in protecting crop plants from a range of pests, diseases and weeds. This protection is integral to ensuring optimal productivity in modern farming systems. Nevertheless, their extensive utilization engenders considerable jeopardy to environmental health, encompassing soil and water. The consequences of pollution for the environment and human health of the population is also impacted, with potential links to chronic diseases and oncological diseases.
Methods : This study examines pesticide usage in Sembalun, East Lombok, Indonesia using a cross-sectional study among farmers who have children under five years of age. This study was conducted from May to August 2025. Food security was measured using standardized questionnaires called Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS). Pesticide use was collected using questionnaires and nutritional status data is obtained from measurements of children’s weight and height.
Results : The results of the study found a significant relationship between pesticide use and nutritional status in children (p < 0,049). Children exposed to pesticides through their parents clothing worn during pesticide use. There is a significant relationship between food security and children’s nutritional status.
Conclusion : Agricultural practices are based on the intensive use of pesticides. Waste management in fruits and vegetables for household consumption needs to be considered. Monitoring pesticide residues in food does not account for the reality of chronic exposure arising from consumption, so further research is needed in the future