Escalated pesticide use in Latin America has increased the number of people exposed to these substances. There are controversies about their health risks in rural contexts. This study, conducted 2018-2021, analyzed local perceptions and discourses on pesticide health risks in the Uruguayan agro-city of Guichón. We conducted 16 semi-structured interviews with agricultural, health, educational, and social actors. In addition, we visited the city and observed activities related to pesticide use. This study identified two discourses in tension. On the one hand, we observed statements that minimized pesticide risks and avoided responsibility for protecting health, safety, and the environment. These discourses contrast with those from a health-environmental perspective. They focused on several diseases and the loss of fauna, using complaints as the primary response. In conclusion, it is necessary to promote preventive practices in local workplaces, increase municipal control, and involve community-based actors in the analysis of pesticide health risks.
Rodríguez et al. (Thu,) studied this question.