Abstract
BACKGROUND: The increasing use of pesticides has become a global public health concern. The problem is more devastating in developing countries, which deters the implementation of effective intervention strategies. Moreover, the existing evidences are inconsistent and not comprehensive. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the pooled pesticide safe use practices and acute health symptoms, and identify factors among farmers in developing countries. METHODS: A comprehensive search using databases such as PubMed, HINARI, Google Scholar, and Epistemonikos, as well as grey literature, was searched up to June 30, 2023. The updated preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis guidelines were used. Data were extracted using Microsoft Excel, and it was exported to STATA 14/SE software for analysis. The Joanna Briggs Institute's quality appraisal tool was used to assure the quality of the included articles. A random-effects model was used during analysis. The funnel plot and Egger's regression test were used to assess the publication bias, and sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the effect of a single study. RESULTS: The pooled pesticide safe use practice was 43.1% (95% CI: 31.01-55.2), and the prevalence of acute health symptoms was 30.36% (95% CI: 19.61-41.1). Farmers with good knowledge (OR = 3.83, 95% CI: 2.36-5.29), good attitudes (OR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.46-2.86), being educated (OR = 5.11, 95% CI: 2.96-7.26), and having more than five years of experience (OR = 6.13, 95% CI: 2.56-9.71) were found to be the identified factors associated with pesticide safe use practice. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlighted a significant gap in pesticide safe use practices and a high prevalence of acute health symptoms among farmers. Therefore, comprehensive intervention measures such as providing educational and safety training programs are required for pesticide users among farmers.