Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of mango farmers on the harmful effects of pesticide use in Southeast Ghana

This study examines Ghanaian mango growers’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (KAP) on the negative consequences of pesticide use. Using a mixed-methods approach, data on pesticide dangers, safety attitudes, and usage practices were gathered from 112 farmers in major mango-producing regions. According to the results, there are still gaps in farmers’ knowledge of the risks of ingestion and cutaneous exposure, even if most of them know the names of pesticides and acknowledge inhalation as the primary exposure route. Unsafe practices were common, including low adoption of personal protective equipment (PPE), with only 12.5% of farmers regularly wearing gloves, and inappropriate disposal of pesticide containers. Larger family sizes were associated with riskier behaviors because of resource constraints, whereas factors like education, training, and income stability substantially impacted safer habits. Just 13.4% of farmers acknowledged the environmental impact of pesticide use, indicating a lack of knowledge about the long-term health and ecological effects of this practice. The results highlight the necessity of focused measures, such as increased access to PPE, farmer education, and more stringent regulatory enforcement. In Ghana’s mango production systems, tackling these problems comprehensively can improve pesticide safety, guarantee agricultural sustainability, and protect public health.