The association of self-reported respiratory system diseases with farming activity among farmers of greenhouse vegetables

Objectives Several studies have investigated the link between agricultural activities of open-field farmers and the prevalence of respiratory diseases, but the relationship with greenhouse vegetable farmers remains unclear. Methods A total of 1,366 participants from four villages in China provided information about their agricultural activities and symptoms of diagnosed respiratory system diseases. The Poisson regression model and zero-inflated Poisson regression model were used to assess the association between diseases, symptoms, and agricultural activities. Results The prevalence of respiratory diseases was 3.59%, and the rates of four main symptoms (cough, tachypnea, chest distress, and hemoptysis) were 17.21%, 8.56%, 10.25%, and 1.61%, respectively. Mix spray of pesticides associated with cough, tachypnea and chest distress, 1.740-, 3.385- and 2.882-fold likelihood were found than hand spray, and the significant association were detected in empty, general information, life-style information adjusted models. Conclusions The relationship between agricultural activities and respiratory diseases is unclear. However, use of the mix spray method of pesticide application may increase the risk of cough, tachypnea, and chest distress.